Newly diagnosed with cancer: Finding support in the Online Community

2 minute read time.
Newly diagnosed with cancer: Finding support in the Online Community

Finding out you have cancer can be overwhelming and it’s normal to experience a range of emotions. During this time, connecting with others who understand what you're going through can offer much-needed comfort and support. If you have just been diagnosed, or you’re supporting a loved one who has, the Online Community is here for you.

New to the Community

The shock of hearing the words “You have cancer” can leave you feeling uncertain about what to do next or how to even express what you're going through. Some members have found that just saying “hi” and acknowledging their feelings helps ease the initial isolation.

"Not really sure what else to say, I'm obviously still in shock but just wanted to say hi."
Community member - Womb cancer forum

After receiving a cancer diagnosis, it's perfectly normal to feel detached, confused, or even numb. There is no right or wrong way to feel.

"Hi. Completely new here. I feel very numb and can't get it off my mind. Is this a normal way to feel?"
Community member - New to the Community forum

Decision-making is another overwhelming aspect of a new diagnosis. Many Community members write about dealing with difficult choices early on. In the Community, you can connect with others who’ve faced similar decisions and learn from their experiences.

"Im new here and need to make a decision. I'm terrified of waking up looking horrific, the thought of a mastectomy terrifies me as it feels so final. I'm hoping to make a decision by the end of the week but I'm struggling."
Community member - Breast cancer forum

Sometimes, people react in ways they didn’t expect. You might even question your own response to the diagnosis.

"I am newly diagnosed with male breast cancer. I am also waiting to see if I have prostate cancer too. All my friends are freaked out by this but I have totally taken it in my stride. I feel unaffected by it to the point that I think that I am weird for my lack of reaction. Has anyone else experienced this?"
Community member - Cancer chat forum

The Online Community isn’t just for those who are living with a diagnosis. It’s a space for caregivers, family members, and friends too. Carers often find it difficult to know how to support their loved ones while managing their own emotions.

"My husband is newly diagnosed…. I am so anxious, please can anyone offer me reassurance.”
Community member - Prostate cancer forum

Learning from the Community and Macmillan

There’s so much to learn from those who have walked a similar path. Earlier this year, we asked members to reflect on the day they were diagnosed and share what advice they would give themselves if they could go back in time. These insights were compiled into a blog, which you can read by clicking here.

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with cancer, there are many resources available through Macmillan to help you understand your diagnosis and the next steps. Whether it’s information about treatments or emotional support, we’re here for you every step of the way. You can find out more on the link below.

Just been diagnosed? | Macmillan Cancer Support

Join the Conversation

If you’d like to share your experience or have a question, please leave a comment below or start a new discussion in one of our forums.

Anonymous
  • I'm waiting to have biopsy done this Monday. After mammogram and ultrasound, doctor referred to biopsy. I'm reading stuff online and searching and searching and my brain is so full of stuff and stressed to the max. I'm tired and just not feeling like myself ever since the first mammogram came back as abnormal and they want more tests...my sister had breast cancer 5yrs ago...so I'm hoping it's a negative..but I'm not feeling it and just worried sick. Worried about me, diagnosis  what the future holds fir me and my three kids...all kinds of stuff. I'm so stressed and it's making me tired all day. 

  • Hi DeeV,

    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience on the blog, and I'm so sorry for the delay in replying to you.

    It sounds like you've had a really tough time having to wait to find out why the first mammogram came back as abnormal.

    How did the biopsy go? I hope you were able to get through it okay, and please remember, no matter what happens, you’re not alone. There are many resources and people here to support you every step of the way.

    If you would prefer messaging our team directly, please feel free to send us an email on community@macmillan.org.uk, and we can help direct you to the most appropriate support available for you during this time.

    Best wishes,
    Dylan

  • I am about 7 weeks away from where you are now. I received the results of my biopsy on October 2nd. Unfortunately for me it was cancer and something new to me I hadn’t realised there are different types. Still once you have all of the results the teams start the process and everything starts quickly!

  • just found out my husband has prostate cancer. The dr said its aggressive. Gleason score was 4+5=9.  He is having scans to see if it anywhere else as well then see dr again to make a plan. Im petrified that its not contained. I wish i could have it for him. Im really struggling. And if one more person tells me to be the strong one…