Cancer at Glastonbury

[Dodgychic]

Hi, I have been diagnosed with breast cancer and I will be starting chemo next month. We are planning to camp in the wicker family field as we are taking our 10 & 17 yr old daughters and its close to parking. Haven't the clue of what side effects I will have as we are all different. obviously hygiene is paramount and I will be taking disposable gloves and using antiseptic gel and washing in boiled water etc. Any advice would be appreicated. I don't think I qualify for disability as its not permanent. I am taking a chair to carry around in case I get tired and obviously I will take it easy. My husband and kids can carry on without me if needed. We usually camp in the other family field which will be ideal as its closer to venues, but it is always over packed with non family groups as they think its more secure. I wish they sort this out. Dirty toilets are my main concern so I would be more fussy than usual. Hoping to shower daily as well. Do you think glasto will help me with the hygiene part or let me go through short cuts if needed. I know its my choice to go but my kids are looking forward to going too. 

[slash's hat]

Very sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I have been through chemo and it was very tough but as you say people react differently and I hope you sail through. I would email the disability team as it is a bit different to a broken leg. No harm in trying.

Might be worth hiring a mobility scooter from them at least as it could be tough going with all the walking, you may hate the thought, as I did when we did a family day out and took a wheelchair, but chemo is likely to make you tire easily. 

Good luck x

[Dodgychic]

I've booked a hotel room for 4 day in case I need it. Not the same as camping though. Its got free cancellation so I can get my money back if i can camp. I have emailed glasto fest for advice. My husband will have to get a wheelbarrow to cart me around. :-D

[Mr.Tease]

1 hour ago, Dodgychic said:

I've booked a hotel room for 4 day in case I need it. Not the same as camping though. Its got free cancellation so I can get my money back if i can camp. I have emailed glasto fest for advice. My husband will have to get a wheelbarrow to cart me around. :-D

Ha, I think after a few days of that he'll probably be the one who insists on using the hotel room :-D

I hope the festival team are accommodating to you (I don't see why they wouldn't be, they're usually very helpful) and you get any extra support you need to make the festival enjoyable. Also remember it's not like you'll be sealed in the festival for 5 days, if you get there and find it a bit much you can always leave (pride and guilt permitting!). 

Did you email the general email or this one?:

Quote

 

You can register for the Access Facilities by completing the 2016 Access Requirement Pack. Please contact the Access Team on disabledenquiries@glastonburyfestivals.co.uk to request this.

The final date you can register for the access facilities is Friday 6th May.

 

As a counsellor I will also say, remember there are counselling services available (mainly outside the festival, but they do have the Samaritans on site) if you ever need to talk about how you're feeling or what you're going through- we do live in a society that expects you to either not talk about it or to 'put on a brave face', rather than the more honest 'I'm absolutely shitting myself!', 'this is awful!' and 'why me?!' etc

[guypjfreak]

yea slashs hats right get hold of clare and camp in the disabled field .its really nice and the people are grand

[stardustjunkie]

I recently spoke to the disability team and they are very friendly and understanding, definitely speak to them as I imagine you would benefit greatly from what they have to offer.

I hope you have a fantastic festival.

[dizzymoo]

Hi Dodgychic just echoing what other people here are saying really. It'll be a different festival experience for you but every chance it will still be wonderful.  Also a place where people are probably less likely to run a mile if you tell them about your illness.  It might be worth investing in a super lightweight chair like the Helinox which folds down very small.  My other half has back problems and the Helinox has transformed festivals for him.

Wishing you all the best with your treatment and hope you have a great Glastonbury.