Awake and up all night

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Are you having trouble sleeping?

Sleep problems may be caused by how you’re feeling emotionally, or as part of the side effects for cancer treatment. If you find it hard to have a good sleep, you’re not alone. The Online Community is here to support you 24/7. 

“Getting a cancer diagnosis is extremely stressful, and that brings a whole load of emotions, and lack of sleep certainly does not help. I think many of us have periods of insomnia. I experienced a long period of not sleeping. I could go off to sleep quite quickly, but after an hour I would find myself wide awake again, and would spend the rest of the night getting frustrated because I couldn't sleep."
Community member, ‘Pancreatic cancer’ group

This discussion thread is for members who:

  • Have trouble sleeping and looking for somewhere to talk
  • Would like some company and support each other during the night
  • Share some things you do that helps you get to sleep

Be a part of the supportive Community in this discussion thread.

  • That must be really tough. I hope he is doing ok at the moment. Cancer is so unfair. 

  • It's the most unfair disease my lovely, and I detest what it does to good people.

    Thank you for asking, but he's doing okay at the moment. I never get complacent as there's always something else round the corner, the same as yourself unfortunately, but we keep moving forward and I keep urging him not to look back. He had a total laryngectomy, meaning he can't speak anymore, but he's very happy that I chat here and also include him. He's not one for online chat but many here know of him and send photos of their pets. They always cheer him up which is what we all need at times sweetheart. xxx

  • Thank you for sharing that, you are right we need to keep moving forward. I've felt pretty stuck for the last 7 months. But I've learnt to appreciate the simple every day moments that I once took for granted and recently didn't know if I'd experience again. I love animals too. I'm glad you've found some comfort here. I hope I might do the same. The funny thing is I've spent the last 7 years of my life volunteering to raise money for cancer charities, never really believing I might actually be the one who needs their help! 

  • The old cliché - life moves in mysterious ways. A way I'd rather you hadn't found sweetie, but it's done and I like your attitude.

    We'll support you here whenever you post and I really hope you'll want to be a part of the group. Helping others really does help to take our minds away from our own problems - it's a big step forward.

    Righto hon, I'm going to try for some zeds before Saturday gets going. It's been lovely chatting with you and I'm wishing you all the very best for your future treatments, and hope the doctors hurry up and get on with them as soon as possible. Do come back anytime and join in with all the conversations, as it's great to think about other things rather than appointments, the bain of our lives. Night hon, and sleep well when you can xxx

  • I hope you manage some relaxing sleep xx thank you for the chat xx

  • New to here and not sure how l feel about forums,never been part of one or know what to say,so sorry if l mess up.

    Had a phone appointment today with thorasic surgeon who was supposed to do my operation next month,lung reduction,,and he has cancelled out.

    Back story is l have emphysema stage four with co2 retention issues,trouble with anything breathing related.Had cat scan which showed a growth growth in lung has increased size three fold over two years,had pet scan and new lung function test which showed cancer right lung and further decrease in lung function.

    He has me now in line with radiology place which has a two month or longer wait list.

    Question are....

    Is two months plus other booking time delays a significant factor in my cancer outcome?

    Is cemo the option they will use?(Don't know about type or anything else at this time.)

    I have always been a glass half full guy so going to do whatever to fight this, have fifty year anniversary in June so going to make it that far at least.My wife is a nervous wreck since hearing the news so l have to present a brave front,trouble is this news has shaken me to the core.

    Any input would be appreciated especially those going through similar circumstances.Thank you.

  • Good morning Casper, and a warm welcome to our group.

    I'm so sorry to hear about your issues and especially the news about the cancellation of your operation. That must have been a real blow for you my friend. 

    I'm sorry I can't answer your questions, as I have very limited medical knowledge, but may I suggest you ring the Macmillan helpline as they're far more informed. They'll be open at 8am, right about now. They'll also be able to give you details of more pertinent forums to join with regards your health issues.

    Please feel free to call in here anytime for support though, as you don't need to put on a brave front and we'll always listen when you need to offload.

    I admire your brave stance though, and am wishing you the very best for everything, especially your desire to celebrate your 50th anniversary with your loving wife. Fingers crossed it will be a day to remember with much better news to celebrate too. Sending you strength and hugs xxx

  • Hello  

    A warm welcome to the Online Community, although I am so sorry to find you joining us. Gill's idea to call the Support line with your questions is brilliant and it's 0808 808 00 00 (8am to 8pm 7 days a week) a free call.

    The Online Community is divided up into cancer specific groups (forums) and you will get plenty of answers if you join our Lung Cancer group and speak with people who have "been there - done that" - here's the link you need:

     Lung cancer forum 

    Once you click on the link I have provided and the page opens up, click on "join" on the black banner at the bottom of the page. Once you have joined the group you can introduce yourself in the "New Here - Say Hello" section and ask your question to others who will have the answers.

    If you do need any help in navigating the Community, please do get back to me.

    Best wishes - Brian.

    Community Champion badge

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

    Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.

    I am a Macmillan volunteer.

  • Hi 

    Sorry to hear about your treatment problems. I think most of hit bumps while on this cancer road. 

    I hope your scan happens soon and you can then continue your treatment. 

  • Hi Casper

    Sorry to hear that you've had to join the cancer club.

    Like Gill, I can't help with your queries but I hope your treatment gets going soon.

    This is a chatty thread, discussing all kinds of things and hopefully gives everyone something else to focus on for a short time. We're all at different points in our cancer journeys but try to support others too.