Making chemotherapy more comfortable this winter: Steve’s story

11 December 2025

Later that year, Steve had his bladder removed at Charing Cross Hospital.

When talking about the surgery, Steve said, “That’s where they spotted a recurrence, in my pelvic lymph nodes. I then saw the oncology department, and they offered me to go on a clinical trial.” 

Since then, regular visits to the chemotherapy day unit at Charing Cross Hospital have become a routine part of Steve’s life. His treatment cycle means he visits the unit every three weeks and, while his cancer cannot be cured, the palliative treatment he receives on the unit helps him manage his condition and gives him more time with his loved ones.

Steve remembers how anxious he felt when he first arrived at the unit. “When I first started coming to the chemo day unit, it was very nerve-wracking because I did not know what I was letting myself in for.”

But over time, Steve has grown close to the staff who look after him during treatment. “The staff, they’re amazing. I know them quite well now. The main people I have seen for two and a half years are Susan, Denise, Diane, Rafa, Faizal and Paul.”

Faizal, the Senior Charge Nurse for the chemotherapy day unit, recognises how important these relationships become for both patients and staff. He said, “We know some of the patients very well. We create a bond with them. Some treatments last 12 weeks, three months, or six months. Sometimes patients are here seven to eight hours a day.”

“Cancer is a big word.”

The chemotherapy team, who work tirelessly to support their patients and make them feel as comfortable as possible, has a unique insight into what life is like for people with cancer who are cared for on the unit.  Faizal shares, “We need to make them feel safe. We want them to forget their worries and sit comfortably in an environment that feels more like home.”

That is why this year’s Winter Appeal matters so much to patients like Steve. Steve closes with, “By supporting the charity’s appeal, the experience would be much more relaxing. Different coloured walls, artwork, a TV or iPad chargers would help take your mind off what is happening.

“Thank you to everyone who is supporting the Winter Appeal.”

You can find out more about how to support the Winter Appeal and help patients like Steve at www.imperialcharity.org.uk/winter-appeal.