Marian Wilson-Smith

"It was a shock to receive my diagnosis. I was told that there were many different kinds of breast cancer and that mine was one that would not respond to hormone therapy. I felt helpless. When the cancer returned after six months, and, after a mastectomy, I decided that, as I could not rely on drugs, I had to help myself. 

I had been running my own business and had lived the years before my diagnosis with very high stress levels and rushed lunches. I decided I would take a close look at my lifestyle and, in particular, to try to eliminate stress and improve my nutrition. 

Finding The Haven was the best thing that ever happened to me.  As soon as I walked through the doors I felt I was in a sanctuary. I felt relaxed and at peace. Everything about The London Haven is wonderful from the building (an old church) to the staff and the wide range of courses available.  It has a calming atmosphere that is most important to someone having to come to terms with this disease.

I was lucky enough to be part of the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction study which was being conducted at The Haven.  It was an amazing course which completely changed my perspective on life. I learned to live more in the moment. It greatly reduced my stress levels. The courses on nutrition helped me to become aware of the need to eat healthily, whenever possible.

It was five years ago that I enrolled at The Haven. The benefits have been lasting and are still with me today.  I have recommended The Haven to others who have also derived benefit from their attendance. It was important for me that I was able to meet people who were also having to come to terms with breast cancer. I did not feel so alone."

Marian Wilson-Smith