I AM writing to let you know about CancerBACUP?s new booklet, The emotional effects of cancer, which may be of use to some of your readers ? especially at this time of year.

Christmas is a time when families and friends get together to enjoy each other?s company, but it can also be stressful, particularly for people experiencing a difficult time in their lives.

This can be true of people who have recently been diagnosed with cancer or those who have been living with the disease and are uncertain about what the future holds.

Some may feel under pressure to have the ?perfect Christmas?. Others may even feel angry, sad, anxious or depressed. It can also be difficult for relatives and friends of cancer patients, who may not know how to react - whether to talk about these feelings, or pretend everything is ?normal?.

This is where CancerBACUP comes in. The leading national information charity for people affected by cancer has produced this new booklet to help people understand the emotional effects of cancer. It suggests ways to deal with the many feelings that a cancer diagnosis produces, and also gives advice to partners, carers and friends.

CancerBACUP gives people the information they need to face cancer without fear.

All services are free to cancer patients, their families and friends. The charity?s specialist cancer information nurses are available to give information and support to people affected by cancer. The number to call is 0808 800 1234 and we are open between Christmas and New Year.

Joanne Rule

Chief executive

CancerBACUP