Meet the Owls

Day 1 of Dying Matters Week - 9th May 2016

Today we attended a Meet the Owls session, organised by Sunflowers Cancer Support, where we also hosted an information stand. Hack Back CIC were the wonderful group who brought their three mesmerising owls; Murray (Burrowing Owl), Idris (African Spotted Eagle Owl) and Mango (Barn Owl), pictured below.

Seven people attended and we all enjoyed watching the owls flutter across the room, landing on the arms of those lucky enough to be wearing the special glove. We had some interesting conversations about Day of the Dead and remembering lost loved ones. One attendee had lost four close family members in the past three years, yet was able to freely discuss death and share happy memories of those that had gone before him and he credited this to an open and supportive family.

We’re hoping to collect some of your personal stories throughout this week, and beyond. Tomorrow will see us at Siren with an open table displaying our new promotional items, Topic of Death Cards, newsletters and practical guide and a story board to collate your experiences. If you can’t make any events this week, but would like to share your story, please email rachael.mcmeacock@mariecurie.org.uk

Hack Back CIC run a number of programmes for carers, people suffering with depression /anxiety, children, young people, adults and families with conditions within autistic spectrum disorders and cancer patients and survivors.

These programmes are aimed at giving people an exciting and enjoyable experience which will have a positive impact on well-being, self-esteem and confidence. The programmes integrate brief solution focussed therapy with green therapy and interaction with the birds.

Here are some more pictures from today:

 

Sunflowers provide advice and guidance services, counselling, alternative therapies and group support sessions in a welcoming and safe environment. Their service is confidential, free and led by a team of professionals.

The Sunflowers team are experienced in the emotions and practical support needed following a cancer diagnosis. Quite often, their support is nothing more than a listening ear in their informal ‘drop in’ centre.

They are passionate about helping others affected by a diagnosis of cancer and their shared experiences help to build a strong community in the fight against cancer. This is particularly important in Merseyside with the highest incidence of cancer in the UK.