Reflection: Looking back

4 minute read time.
Reflection: Looking back

As we bid farewell to the past year and welcome the dawn of a new one, it may often mark the time for reflection and gratitude for approaching a New Year. For many of us on the Community, this transition may hold profound significance as we reflect on our individual journeys affected by cancer and may try to look ahead with hope, resilience, and newfound determination as a new year, looms in the horizon.

For some, the past year might have been marked by the whirlwind of treatments, doctor’s appointments, and moments of uncertainty. The difficulties you may have faced, the triumphs you may have celebrated – each step that may leave an enduring imprint on our lives. Let’s see how the members of the Community reflect on their journeys so far.

This Community member reflects on the difficult experience they have had that has made them appreciate the good times more:

After what seems a tough experience for this member, they begin with a renewed sense of optimism and encourage fellow members:

Words of encouragement followed for this member from others:

Reflecting on our experiences may bring a mixed bag of emotions. However, it’s important to note, each one of us has a unique story, a journey filled with moments that have shaped us into who we are today.

What makes the Community a unique place is that no matter how alone you think you may feel during your experience, it may always come as a surprise to realise it is full of members who may be going through a similar experience to you:

Sometimes, it may just be the case that members need a voice of reassurance from someone who is going through something similar as them:

The Online Community has been a beacon of support, empathy, and understanding for many of us. It’s comments like this that make everything we do worthwhile, so you can access the support you may need. It’s a space where we've found solace in shared experiences, gained insights from fellow members, and received unwavering encouragement during the toughest of times we may be going through.

Together on the Community, let’s embrace the dawn of a new year alongside one another with open hearts, unwavering kindness, and a shared sense of empathy and support. Wishing you all the best 2024 and beyond.

Anonymous
  • I have been on the online community incurable group, for nearly seven years never ever thought i would get threw the long road ahead, though i have.. The site has been my god send, in many ways.,. I started this journey with my husband'., he was with me all the way, though life had some thing else lined up, he then got cancer, and i lost him..

  • As I sit here in the early hours of the morning at 2.20 am reading all of the memories of the people who have posted. I reflect on the my own Cancer journey, I  was diagnosed with Breast cancer in 2002 age 51 my children where 15 and 12 at the time. I hadn't made contact with Macmillan so I soldered on by myself. Then surprise in 2021 I contracted Liver cancer, and had a partial robotic removal on my 70th birthday.  Again I soldered on.This 3rd time along came secondary Liver cancer, and I am now undergoing treatment Chemotherapy to try and reduce the spread,  all being well I might have the chance of a liver section, if the chemo works. This time I have reached out to Macmillan and it is the best thing that I could have done. I try to stay positive, live every day as if it were my last, enjoying the time with my family and friends. Making memories, and finding support and giving it where I can. As others have supported me. I wish you all well for the coming new year of 2024.

  • Such a powerful quote, thank you for sharing this  .

  • Thank you for your kind words  , we're glad you have found the Community to be a place of support and comfort.

  • Hello  ,

    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your husband and how you've felt since. It's reassuring to know that you have found some support on the Community. Please do get in touch with us via Private Message or on community@macmillan.org.uk if there's anything further we can do to help.