Nigel Hughes, author of Cancer Patience, will be sharing his very personal story at a special event in Leiston, Suffolk next week, to help raise money for St Elizabeth Hospice. Here, he explains more
Who are you and what do you do?
I am Nigel Hughes, a fabulous mix of Environmental Entrepreneur, Leadership Development Consultant and Executive Coach. I live in Lawshall Suffolk with my husband of 53 years. I have an Arts background – actor, singer, dancer and professional performer for 20+ years. I am a dedicated nature lover and have helped to conserve 2,000 square miles of threatened Papua New Guinea Rainforest as well as helping 62 communities to create their own new woodland.
What led you to writing Cancer Patience?
Diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2013, I kept a detailed diary to keep myself steady, which I sent weekly to friends and family for support. Then last year, while working as a business consultant with the Oncology Team in a Global Pharmaceutical company I was encouraged to publish my story to help others.
If you had to describe your cancer journey in a paragraph, what would you say?
I say it all in my book. This is a story of a cancer survivor and a true story of hope. It was a rough ride, and I found myself challenging the orthodox medical Multidisciplinary Team approach and created a more holistic approach. I found that nature was a profound source of nourishment and healing – as well as the massive support from my “reluctant carer” Ric, my husband.
How might your story help people in a similar situation?
Not many men share the intimate details of the challenges they face, physically, emotionally and spiritually. So – by telling my raw, warts-and-all account, I aim to inspire others, to find their own unique way through. There is a useful Toolkit, which has been described as ‘A Code for Living’.
What is happening next week at the Sizewell Sports & Social Club, in Leiston, Suffolk?
At the invitation of Robert Ashton and his Leiston Quaker Meeting, I will be discussing my experience to help others speak up and speak out about what they might do and need in similar circumstances.
Who else will be speaking and what can people expect on the night? Proceeds will be going to St Elizabeth Hospice?
I will be joined by Matthew Hutton who has written a book “Your Last Gift” – exploring the vital importance of getting one’s affairs in order in advance of the inevitable. This will be a useful talking point in airing all the uncomfortable stuff that we like to ignore… We will be donating all proceeds to support the fabulous work of St Elizabeth Hospice, Ipswich.
Where can people find out more about the event?
The event takes place at 7pm on Tuesday 18th March at Sizewell Sports & Social Club, Tickets cost just £5, and because the event is sponsored by Birketts solicitors and the East of England Coop, all ticket money goes straight to St Elizabeth Hospice.
Also, how can people who are unable to attend get hold of a copy of your book?
Available in soft back from Waterstones and through my business Outstanding Global and on Amazon as an eBook.
Preparing for the Unexpected: Conversations on Life & Legacy, An evening with Nigel Hughes and Matthew Hutton, Introduced by Rachel Sloane, takes place at Sizewell Sports & Social Club on Tuesday March 18, from 7-9pm. Buy tickets here. Proceeds will go to St Elizabeth Hospice.
Featured image of Nigel Hughes – by Katie Haselhurst
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