Cancer Patient battles mental health as he continues working despite vital treatment being cancelled

A Bedfordshire Cancer patient is one of masses of people left in limbo as hospitals across the country cancel procedures.

As COVID-19 cases surge, victims of Cancer are being left with no rescheduling information for operations or treatment.

Gary Sales, 48, described the strain of juggling work and the uncertainty of his health as experts fear deaths related to untreated illnesses during lockdown could rapidly increase.

Mr Sales said: “My anxiety is through the roof and having to work remotely from home is really affecting my mental health - I fear my depression will return.

“In March, red blotches were found in a scan and I was due to have another biopsy to see if tumours had spread.”

Mr Sales, of Haynes, Bedfordshire, was told his cancer treatment would no longer go ahead on the NHS or privately. The father of two was first diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2017. His treatment was due to end next year.

Mr Sales pictured during previous treatment

“When the pandemic got worse, I was told my biopsy was cancelled as well as the rest of my treatment while hospitals focus on COVID-19.”

As the government asks businesses and workplaces to encourage employees to work from home, Mr Sales explained his struggle to balance a lonely change of work environment and keeping a positive mindset.

“While COVID-19 puts cancer patients to the back of healthcare it’s hard to focus. I’m concerned my performance is suffering because I’m constantly worrying about the Cancer spreading.”

Mohammed Attique, a general practitioner, explained that Cancer treatment is only being delayed for the time being to stop further complications.

He said: “If people start chemotherapy they will be more prone to get the virus, and this could eventually lead to death so it’s crucial to monitor Cancer patients during these unprecedented times and keep them safe and healthy.”

Health concerns during lockdown are clearly presenting mental health consequences as people are forced to continue working.

Mykay Kamara, business leader and CEO of Wellbott, explained how mental health can be adversely affected by lack of social interaction during lockdown and offered some tips to help.

He said: “People who work at home tend to work longer hours, so make sure you regulate your own time. Having a good working routine will help you balance out work and home.

“Indoor exercise, eating regularly, hydration, routine and communication are all essential to helping keep on top of things.”