Express reporter Robert Fisk has become an inspiration to many. Diagnosed with incurable bowel cancer three and a half years ago, he faced fresh anxiety last week when a doctor told him that his latest scan had revealed an issue requiring further investigation. Robert and his family have had to cope with the fear and uncertainty themselves.
That experience has strengthened Robert’s determination to improve mental health support for cancer patients. Despite regularly feeling unwell during chemotherapy, he launched the Cancer Care campaign to ensure people in his position receive help with the emotional impact of the disease.
Robert, 47, was receiving another round of chemotherapy on Wednesday and could not attend the London Press Club Awards at Stationers’ Hall. As a result, he was unable to accept the Special Campaigning Award in person for his powerful work.
His Express colleague Rob Virtue accepted the prestigious honour on his behalf from former Sunday Express editor David Wooding. He also read a message from Robert to the assembled media guests.
Robert’s message said: “For me, the purpose of journalism is to make a difference to people’s lives. That can mean exposing corrupt politicians, explaining how wars thousands of miles away could affect their future, or even telling readers whether the newest kebab shop in their area lives up to the hype.
“That is why I launched the Daily Express’s Cancer Care campaign. Cancer is the most difficult experience many people will face, yet the NHS and the Government have too often overlooked the mental health problems that can arise during and after treatment.
“For too long, patients have received a cancer diagnosis and then been left to manage the anxiety, fear and uncertainty largely on their own. I am delighted that, as a result of the campaign, the Government has acknowledged the problem and is working to place mental health support at the centre of cancer care in hospitals.
“Sadly, statistics indicate that half the people in this room will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Do not make the mistake I made by ignoring signs that something was wrong. Speak to your GP as soon as possible, and if you cannot secure an appointment, switch into journalism mode and turn the issue into a story—or even a campaign.”
There have been assurances that Robert’s Cancer Care proposals will feature in the Government’s cancer plan, but the promised details have yet to emerge. For Robert, meaningful emotional support for patients cannot come soon enough.
Earlier this week, Robert wrote for the Express about his hope that he will not die by Christmas.
He concluded the article by reiterating: “We at the Daily Express have said that cancer patients need mental health support throughout their treatment and after it ends.
“Their psychological wellbeing must remain at the forefront of their oncology team’s thinking throughout their battle with this devastating disease.
“This support should form an integral part of the Personal Cancer Plan, which former health secretary Wes Streeting pledged in February.
“But time is passing, and we now need Yvette Cooper to set out the detail. She must turn Wes Streeting’s words into action.”
