Jennifer McPhee
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Sep 28/01) - Eight cancer survivors from across the NWT and three Calgary-based cancer experts spent five days together last week at a remote lodge overlooking Blachford Lake.

It was, among other things, a chance for the patients to express a tidal wave of emotions with others who have walked the same road.

The program, called Tapestry, takes place every year in Alberta. This year, three breast cancer survivors from the North helped bring it to the NWT.

The women hope to make Tapestry an annual event, one run by Northern medical experts for both cancer patients and their families.

Two Northerners, developing skills in psycho-social oncology, also attended.

"No one is ever told they are cured of cancer," said Steve Simpson, part of Tapestry's clinical team. "This is an opportunity for that to be acknowledged. It's a safe environment for people to face their fears and talk about them."

Days opened and closed at the five-day retreat with yoga and meditation.

Psychologist Dr. Maureen Angen said patients often distance themselves from their bodies, after experiencing painful cancer treatments. Yoga and meditation can help them feel comfortable again in their own skin.

Later in the day, when participants shared their stories, strict rules about listening without judging and or interrupting governed the discussion. Massage and art therapy were also part of the experience.

"I've never laughed or cried so much in a five-day period," said Debbie Monkman, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999.

She said cancer left her feeling isolated, afraid and angry. And her two mastectomy's were traumatic not only for her, but also for her children.

"I was breastfeeding my son when I found out I had cancer," she said. "My children took it hard, because they equated my breasts with sustenance."

But the mother of two from Hay River left Tapestry feeling more at peace and better equipped to handle her life at home. And she believes cancer has changed her, in positive ways.

"If I could go back two years and not have cancer, I would say no," said Monkman. "When you're faced with death, you have to look at what's really important."

Tapestry psychologist Helen MacRae said this is a common experience. "Cancer is a wake-up call," she said. "People often use cancer to enhance their lives, to get rid of all the junk and keep the good stuff."