My mind is swirling with questions. Here are some. It's about someone I know and I don't understand much so I feel useless trying to help.
Why are lymph nodes important in cancer? Is the lymph system like the blood system, carried in vessels like veins? And is it pumped, like blood is pumped by the heart?
Why is cancer carried by the lymph system not the blood system? Or do both carry cancer?
There are many tests. MRI, CT, internal, blood. When do the tests end and a diagnosis made?
Is cancer intensely individual, or are there similarities for people with cancer in the same area of the body?
How are stages diagnosed?
Hi Diota and welcome to this corner of the community but sorry to hear about your friend of family member.
First, do you know the ‘exact’ type of cancer the person has as knowing this information would help me support you better.
Hi again Diota
I am not a medical professional but having been on my cancer journey for over 25 years with two very rare types of Non Hodgkin's Lymphomas (one incurable) I know how the Lymphatic System works and how the Lymphatic System and the Blood are the transport system that spreads cancer throughout the body...... but how the many different types of cancers develop can be ever so different from cancer to cancer.
THIS LINK will help you understand the process better.
When it comes to getting and giving support the Community has various support groups.
If you care to have a look through this link Cancer Specific Groups you will find all our dedicated cancer specific support groups listed.
The Macmillan Support Line is open between 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00…… this service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.
We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow 3 working days for a reply.
Talking to people ‘face to face’ can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
Do get back to me if you need further help.
