This is an optional activity.

The aim of this activity is to help you develop a picture of the information and support available to those affected by renal cancer in your region and country.

After working through this Module, you should attempt the following tasks:

  1. Research which charities and organisations specifically concern themselves with renal cancer in your country. Identify the services offered by these organisations. They might include patient leaflets and information, telephone support staffed by nurse specialists, and the facilitation of support networks.
    The internet can be a very valuable source of information when trying to find these organisations. We recommend that you try one of the major search engines – for example, Google or Yahoo – using the terms ‘renal cancer charity [your country]’ or ‘kidney cancer charity [your country]’ to begin your research.
  2. Attempt to find out whether your country has any urological nurse specialists associations or groups. If you do find such a group try to gain some details about their work and the services they offer.
    Again, the Internet can help you in finding such groups. Search using the terms ‘urological nursing association [your country]’.
  3. Try to find out whether support groups exist for renal cancer sufferers and their families within your region. There may also be a more general urology cancer support group, which your patients could access. These may be held in your local hospital or one close by. If possible, try to find out more information on these groups and who runs them. Are they patient-led or facilitated by urology cancer nurse specialists?

You can keep a record of your findings in your Personal Learning Record.