Life after having cancer.

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Hi,

I finished treatment for NHL and I was only diagnosed last October. Luckily, I was told I was in remission in January. For a long time I feel like all I have thought about is my health and it has been miserable. Recently, everything has started to hit me emotionally even though I thought I was okay. I am only 27, and everything in my life feels like it has come to a stand still where I struggle to feel happy even though I know deep down I am still me and do feel grateful to be a survivor. What can I do to start enjoying my day-to-day life again and to make the most of being here! I do not know who I am anymore and how to move forwards, please help. 

  • Hello Beepboop,

    Thanks for contacting us. I’m Gail, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    It sounds like you are still going through many emotions right now, ranging from the relief of hearing your treatment was successful to the other extreme of feeling your life has not returned to anything you recognise as normal, despite the good news of being in remission.

    Emotional response after a cancer diagnosis varies from person to person and it can take time to adjust. It is important you let your GP know how you are feeling, as the lack of joy you describe in your day to day life may indicate you are depressed and they can support you to get through it.

    You may want to think about accessing support through Lymphoma Action charity who offer many resources and support services, where you can reach out to others who have experienced the same situation. They are currently offering places on a virtual workshop which looks at living with and beyond lymphoma diagnosis, which may be useful for you.

    You can also find support on the Macmillan NHL online forum. You may find it useful to talk with a health professional about how you’re feeling. You can request an assessment online for free counselling, through the Macmillan BUPA counselling service. If you prefer to speak to someone face to face you can check the services available at a Maggie’s Centre or Macmillan Centre, near to where you live.

    Moving beyond cancer diagnosis and treatment can take more time than you expected, but you have taken the right steps in seeking help.

    Best wishes,

    Gail

    Macmillan Information Nurse Specialist

    Ref:GH/AW