Let’s take a look at what happened on the Online Community during February. Today’s blog is a roundup of the discussions, blogs and questions posted last month. If you’re new to the Community or just want to catch up with what’s been happening on the site, this blog has all the information you need.
There’s been a lot for everyone to process recently with the coronavirus restrictions being lifted in some parts of the UK and other recent events being reported in the news. This is going to add to any anxious and worried feelings you may already be coping with, so it’s important that you have access to support when you need it.
The Community is a safe space for people to talk about how they are coping, and speak to those who understand what they’re going through.
Here are some of the conversations about side effects, treatment plans, and concerns that were posted in our Community groups in February. It’s not too late to offer support if you’d like to reply to the posts below, simply click on the related links and find the ‘reply’ button under the posts in the discussion thread.
“I'm so angry and keep wondering if this would have been seen sooner and be more easily treated if it wasn't for Covid and the overloaded health service. I know that's another useless train of thought. It would be really helpful to know what you all are doing to take care of yourselves and keep the anger and depression under control.”
Community member, ‘New to this group’ discussion thread, Carer’s only forum
“I am finding it more and more difficult to just sit and wait. I feel like time isn't moving and am being given no reassurance whatsoever that my mass won't grow or spread by the time I have surgery. I am 29 (30 in September) and I just want to get on with my life.”
Community member, ‘Struggling’ discussion thread, Kidney cancer forum
“Hi and hello to you all my daughter 32 has been diagnosed with lung cancer and is currently going through Radiotherapy treatment she was diagnosed in 2018 with bowel cancer and after chemo/Radiotherapy and operations we are now stable with the Bowel. The diagnosis of lung cancer has shot me to pieces. We are extremely close and I keep her upbeat every day but I’m so scared for her as everyone else on here I’m just looking for advice and support as this time around the radiotherapy is so much harsher on her and it’s so heartbreaking to watch her go through all this with the horrible side effects. Just looking for guidance and support from all you lovely people.”
Community member, New here discussion thread, Lung cancer forum
“I am freaking out a bit here (what’s new) about the time between diagnosis and treatment starting officially diagnosed on 2nd feb, had CT and waiting on MRI because something showed on my liver. Have an oncology appointment on 8th March but it seems so far away?!
How long did you all wait for treatment to start after results were all back?”
Community member, ‘Treatment time?’ discussion thread, Breast cancer forum
"I have just been diagnosed and am trying to decide the best way forward. I feel fine during the day but when I wake at night for wee I lie awake worrying."
Community member, 'Sleeping' discussion thread, Prostate cancer forum
Last month we saw 2,213 members join the site, over 1,734 new discussion threads, and around 14,122 replies posted in our Community groups. We’re sharing this information to help show you that there are so many others who have similar questions and are looking to hear your personal experiences to help support them.
“This group has been a great source of support for me over the past 17 months. Everyone around here "gets it". Friends and family are wonderful but they don't always understand so this group is a good safe haven. There's always someone around to listen, share a smile or offer a virtual hug when it's needed."
Community member, Brain cancer forum
“I have stopped looking on the internet for anything medical and reached out to MacMillan who told me about this Community. I will stick to this forum and hope I can be of help and support to people also on this journey.”
Community member, Bowel (colon and rectal) cancer forum
"️I have no deep and wise words to ease your burden right now Ann but the support I can give you. That's the beauty of this website, we remain anonymous but can choose to share our weird and wonderful ideas"
Community member, The Room discussion forum
“Indeed, we are all here for one another. I’m so glad I found this wonderful platform with its spirited advice, information, and the occasional rant! It’s refreshing to hear women being non-judgemental and non-competitive with one another. In a world which too often embraces superficial wealth and external looks our strength is truly beautiful.”
Community member, Breast cancer forum
“I'm sure you will find the group helpful. I don't post a lot but reading how others feel helps me.”
Community member, Bereaved spouses and partners forum
Catch up on the Community News
If you’ve not yet read the other blogs we’ve recently posted, there’s lots of information and support guidance included on the links below.
Are you wanting to reach out for support and speak to someone in a similar situation? Why not start a new discussion thread in our Community groups to connect with others. You don't have to just ask questions, you can provide an update to let your Community friends know how you are or even introduce yourself to share what brings you to the site.
If you need some help using the site or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Online Community team by emailing community@macmillan.org.uk.
