We all deserve support, love and kindness in our lives, especially when living with cancer as you need emotional and practical support. Along with many other practical challenges cancer brings dating is one of them. Cancer treatment may have changed some of your personal relationships, your appearance and self-confidence, so you are worried about meeting new people.
When the time feels right to look for a new relationship, you may find yourself asking questions like these Community members:
“So, what does everyone do Re dating post breast or any cancer? Body not the same, medication has not so nice side effects and this effects various parts of my body. I work full time and have varying degrees of fatigue. Where do people go to date similar or match/companion with people who 'get it'?”
Community member, ‘Dating after breast cancer’ discussion thread
“I am 1 year post op, been single for some time and well wondered what anyone else's experience was dating after cancer? I don't yet know how I feel but have been thinking about how I would begin dating, if I am really ready. If it’s even an option. I sure would like some companionship and maybe even in time a full relationship. Would it even be on the cards especially after surgery. Or do I accept my dating days are over!”
Community member, ‘Dating after cancer’ discussion thread
“I don't want to be alone for the rest of my life but who's going to want a woman with no breasts and I haven't got a clue where to start.”
Community member, ‘Dating’ discussion thread
Turning to people in our Online Community who share similar concerns and experiences can help you feel less alone. If you’re worried about dating after a cancer diagnosis, join the Let’s talk about dating and cancer discussion thread. It’s a dedicated space for Community members to support each other and share personal experiences with dating.
Here are some of the lived experiences members have shared in our forums:
“Anyway, date went really well, I didn’t ruin the afternoon by raising it, just enjoyed getting to know him. Ended up discussing it via text this evening as I needed to do what I felt was the right thing, and the conversation thankfully went fine. Either way, I just had to tell him rather than keep secret, we all have our challenges afterall. I hope this helps someone else.”
Community member, ‘Dating: Is it ok not to mention the bloody cancer ??’ discussion thread.
“…don't think of yourself as 'dating after cancer' just think about dating if you feel you are ready.”
Community member, ‘Dating after cancer’ discussion thread
“I admire your courage and openness to consider dating after your journey with cancer. It's entirely possible to find companionship and even a fulfilling relationship post-surgery. The most important thing is to take your time, prioritize your well-being, and find someone who appreciates you for who you are. It's all about finding the right timing and the right person who understands and supports your journey.”
Community member, ‘Dating after cancer’ discussion thread
“When you find someone else they will love you for who you are. Your confidence will come back and take everyday has it comes little steps at a time.”
Community member, ‘Dating’ discussion thread
At the age of 25, Lauren was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma. As she navigated a cancer diagnosis and treatment, Lauren was also starting a new relationship with Danny. The couple have now been together for six years and recently got engaged. Watch the video below to hear Lauren’s story or visit the website.
If you have been diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma join our Hodgkin Lymphoma forum today and start chatting to others with similar experiences.
If you have a dating with cancer experience you want to share, or have been thinking about starting a new relationship but are feeling worried, join the Let’s talk about dating and cancer discussion thread. It’s a dedicated space for Community members to support each other and share personal experiences with dating.
