Let's talk about dating and cancer

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As Valentine's day approaches, we are starting the conversations around love and dating.

Here on the Online Community, we know that cancer can have an impact on personal relationships especially when it comes to dating. Everyone deserves love and companionship so talking can help break down taboos.

Have you worried about dating with cancer?
How did you find navigating dating and relationships after a cancer diagnosis?

This discussion thread is a safe space for you to share your personal experiences and hopefully connect with others in a similar situation.

Turning to people in our Online Community who share similar concerns and experiences can help you feel less alone. If you’re worried about dating with cancer, have a personal experience of dating with cancer or have some friendly tips to share, please comment below.

If you need further information and support, please read this blog or contact the Online Community team.

Swordsman 29 days ago

I am 62, I was diagnosed with CLL 4 years ago, I have been in remission for 2 years, I have started a new drug Zanubrutinib, after an older version gave me bad reaction. The new version has given me a new life my lymph nodes have gone down. I am feeling a lot better within my self. I have been married for 35 years, when I was diagnosed with cancer my wife did not expect me to live for so long. Our relationship has hit rock bottom. My cancer nurse told me that because of the type of chemo drug I need to practice safe sex. My wife was not very happy to use protection as we haven't for so many years.I am human & need emotional & sexual contact to feel normal. My wife has made me feel that "no women wants a man with cancer". I have been feeling down about my wife's rejection I am still me. I cannot help I got cancer, if it was the other way around I would have loved her more & given her more affection. I think me & my wife will separate at some point. I need to move on & think about the rest of my life.

Several friends have made comments about how they would not date someone with cancer almost cringing about the idea. I am just so surprised at there reactions. I need a partner who cares, how can I date with cancer, is there specialist websites or forums.