Next month is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. In this Community News Blog, we’re catching up with our Lung cancer forum. This supportive online group is for anyone affected by lung cancer, whether you’ve been diagnosed or are supporting a loved one. It’s a place to share your thoughts, worries, and experiences with people who understand what you're going through.
Read on to see what discussions have taken place in our Lung cancer forum recently.
"I'm so glad I've decided to join as I've been reading all your amazing posts of support."
Community member – Lung cancer forum
For many, managing the physical pain of lung cancer can be overwhelming. The Lung cancer forum is a safe space where you can share your struggles and ask questions. A member was battling with pain and wondered what others had done to control it.
“I have been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and am waiting to see if I can have immunotherapy. My pain is very bad, and I am finding it difficult to get the dose of morphine right. Has anybody else had trouble controlling the pain? It does not help the anxiety; I think a vicious circle is happening."
Community member – Lung cancer forum
One of our Community Champions was quick to reply, offering support and a link to helpful information.
“I am sorry to hear you are struggling with pain. Please do reach out to your medical team to discuss this with them, no one should be in pain. Anxiety can certainly play a big part. This link includes information that you may find helpful.”
Community member – Lung cancer forum
A member of the Community recently asked questions about chemotherapy and lung cancer.
“I am new on here and I am about to start chemotherapy in a few weeks. I am really scared about the side effects of the chemo can anyone give me any information about their experiences with chemotherapy”
Community member – Lung cancer forum
Other members of the Community replied to the post, sharing their experiences. You can read the discussion by clicking here.
Another member of the Lung cancer forum, undergoing radiotherapy, expressed their challenges with side effects.
"I am on week six of my radiotherapy for NSCLC, just three more sessions to go. The side effects are really affecting me now. My appetite is zero, and I have no energy. The pain in my oesophagus is horrible. I am so close to the end now, but I feel really rough. Just needed to write it down and knew this was the best place."
Community member – Lung cancer forum
Supporting a loved one with lung cancer can be incredibly challenging, especially when they withdraw or struggle to cope with their diagnosis. One forum member opened up about their experience:
"My partner has been diagnosed with stage one lung cancer. We were due to marry at the end of the year, but we may postpone this. I’m finding it hard to support him, as it’s new to both him and me. He’s normally bubbly and outgoing, but since his diagnosis, he won’t leave his room. Any tips on how to support him?"
Community member – Lung cancer forum
If you're navigating your own lung cancer journey or supporting a loved one, the Lung cancer forum is here for you. Why not join the forum today and introduce yourself by creating a new post?
You can also reach out to the Macmillan Support Line at 0808 808 00 00 or visit the Macmillan website for more information.
