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Helpful friends/family :/

RosieL25
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Hello

Haven't had a meeting with the MDT yet but looks like I have bowel cancer.

Some of my friends and my husband are aware and are trying to be really helpful and supportive.

But, I have a feeling that they are possibly on apposing sides. Some of my friends are quite anti cancer treatments and are advising me to do other things. My husband is the other way and will want me to put put all of my trust in the doctors.

Right now, I'm being advised to drink alkaline water. But, looking it up, it states that doing that reduces the absorption of cancer meds. I haven't started any treatment yet. So, is it OK to change to alkaline water? And would I be able to drink it during treatment?

  • Hi RosieLeighf76955

    My name is Sarah, and I am one of the Cancer information Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line. Welcome to the online community I hope you are finding it a helpful and supportive place to share with others.

    It is understandable to have questions around treatment and alternative therapies as there is so much information online. Family and friends will have their own opinion too, this can feel quite confusing.

    It is important first to understand your diagnosis and what this will mean for you. This will give you a clearer picture of recommended treatment and give you a chance to ask questions about alternative medications or diets.

    It is difficult for us to provide advice about taking anything before or during treatment, your team are best placed to do this. This is because they will have all the information about your diagnosis and treatment.

    In many cases there is not enough evidence around alternative therapies, diets and supplements. I have added a link in here about alkaline water from MD Anderson Cancer Centre, as this information has been medically reviewed also information from Cancer Research UK.

    Preparing for treatment is important and has been shown to reduce side effects, it can also give you more treatment options and better long-term health. It can help to focus on this whilst you wait to hear from the MDT.

    I hope this information is helpful. If there is anything else we can help with, please feel free to get back in touch.  

    Best wishes,

    Sarah

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref/ SS/KHa

    Sarah S-Macmillan Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
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