A cancer diagnosis can be a shock. Thinking about treatment may feel overwhelming. If you’re feeling nervous or worried, you’re not alone. Mary was diagnosed with myeloma in 2020, which is a type of blood cancer. This can also be known as bone marrow cancer. Mary has shared her experience of diagnosis, having a stem cell transplant and chemotherapy through her video. Mary’s story talks about cancer experiences many people might go through, even if you or your loved one has a different diagnosis. Mary shares what receiving her diagnosis was like. Mary also talks about hair loss and adjusting to being back at home after a hospital stay. She also shares her experience of finding support around her mental wellbeing.
If you’ve been diagnosed with myeloma, there’s lots of support available on the Online Community. We have a Myeloma forum on the Online Community. We also have a Stem cell transplants for blood cancer forum. Forums on the Online Community are places to talk to other people who have been through a similar experience.
Mary describes her story:
Watch Mary’s video below:
Marys Story: Myeloma and My Stem Cell Transplant 2 - YouTube
Everyone’s treatment plan can be different. There are lots of different treatments for myeloma. Not everyone who is diagnosed with myeloma may have a stem cell transplant. If you’d like to find out more about myeloma, we have information and guidance around myeloma on Macmillan’s website. You can also find out more about Stem cell and bone marrow transplants. We would always encourage anyone to talk to your medical team if you have questions about the treatment you have been offered.
Like Mary says in her video, a serious illness can have a huge impact. It’s natural that you may be struggling with how you’re feeling. Hearing other people’s experiences of cancer can really help. Lots of members here on the Online Community talk about what they are going through. Take a look through our cancer forums on the Online Community, or join our Myeloma forum.
If you’d like to find support locally like Mary, remember you can use our “In your area” page on Macmillan’s website. This page is set up to help you find information and support centres, support groups and events in your area. All you need to do is put in your postcode to find what’s available.
If you would like to explore other support options you can access, keep in mind that you can contact Macmillan’s Support Line. Our support team are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on freephone 0808 808 00 00, email or live webchat. Our team are here to support you and answer questions.
We’d like to thank Mary for sharing her story with us. If you are affected by myeloma or another type of cancer, there is lots of support for you here on the Online Community. Lots of members talk about their experiences with diagnosis, treatment, side effects and mental health. It’s important to find the right support for you. Macmillan and the Online Community are here to help.
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