"You are not alone": Rugby councillor stars in moving short film about his cancer journey
A long-serving Rugby councillor has shared his cancer journey in a moving short film.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Jerry Roodhouse has spent decades fighting for people’s rights.
He has been diagnosed with Stage 4 small cell neuroendocrine cancer and now has his own fight to deal with.
Cllr Roodhouse said he has shared his experience with the local NHS to help others feel less alone.
He asks: 'Is this really good enough for Rugby residents?' and encourages others to share their own stories with Healthwatch.
Cllr Roodhouse made the film with help from Simon Ainley.
He said: “I want people to know they are not alone, help is around, do not feel isolated."
Cllr Roodhouse said he had to push to get answers and discovered he could have his treatment in Rugby.
“Every step I asked, can this be done in Rugby?,” he went on.
“Is this good enough for Rugby residents? “My journey has shown me how vital, from day one, local and compassionate healthcare is.
“It comes back to listening, compassion and kindness. All the data says they are key and if you can fit those things into the system, the mental health effect on patients is enormous, I can assure you, I’ve seen it.
“Just a few of the right words at the right time in the right place from a health professional makes that individual feel like they are a human being rather than going through the sausage machine.
"I’m sharing my story so people can feel they are not alone. Together our voices can make a real difference.
"Remember, you are not alone.”
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/ulfIq1zgsNk