Emma’s experience with Auricular Acupuncture

Emma Ashton, 50, has recently taken part in the Auricular Acupuncture group sessions at Cavendish Cancer Care. These have been designed to support people experiencing hot flushes related to cancer treatment, as well as other symptoms. Here we find out a bit more about her reasons for joining us.

3 years ago, Emma was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had found a lump in one breast and doctors also found a small tumour in her other breast too. Her treatment plan included a one-sided mastectomy, leaving one tumour in place. She then had radiotherapy and ongoing hormone treatments to keep the remaining tumour from growing.

In common with many patients using hormone treatments, Emma has struggled with hot flushes. “I was getting a lot of very severe flushes,” she recalled. “I would have sweat running down my face with them, it was very embarrassing. Normally I love to wear make-up but I stopped wearing it as there was no point. So, when the nurse who did my hormone injection at Weston Park mentioned the acupuncture groups at Cavendish to me, I thought I’d happily give anything a go!”

After an initial call with a member of the Cavendish team, Emma joined one of our 4-week small group sessions with the aim of helping with her hot flushes. She has just completed her final session.

“I’ll admit I was sceptical at first, especially with it being a group session as I didn’t think I’d be able to relax,” said Emma. “However, Charlie (the therapist) was so calm and with the music on I found it a really relaxing and positive experience. I really looked forward to coming each week.”

Emma has also found a significant reduction in her hot flushes after the second session, finding them to be less frequent and less severe.

“I’d recommend Cavendish to friends, and in fact I already have done. My hot flushes are less intense, and I feel I can continue my daily activities more now, without them affecting me as much. Time will tell as to whether the change lasts however it’s definitely opened my mind to more of this kind of treatment in the future.”

Find out more about our small group sessions HERE