Morning, I had experienced some on off rectal bleeding for a couple of months and had previous episode around February which i wrote off as hemmaroids (i had had and self treated 4 years earlier). I approached my doctor who took a little while but eventually refered me for a colonoscopy and blood tests. All blood tests came back fine but the colonoscopy revealed the below.
I am 2 days into this journey now, more blood tests today, MRIs and CTs are being scheduled. I suffer with anxiety and this process has been horrific. I have another doctors appointment booked as I'm yo-yo'ing between being OK to cold sweats, fear, tears and panic. I need to make use of the couple of weeks before anything happens as this cant go on and I need sleep.
Im 44, Male and frightened at what awaits me but I thought I would sign up to MacMillans forum and share what I am going through here in the hope for comfort and shared experience.
Hi Webber1c88ad and welcome to the Macmillan Community but so sorry to hear about your ongoing diagnosis.
I am not medically trained in any way…. but I have been on my cancer journey for over 25 years with 2 very rare types of blood cancer one being incurable…..
The report above to the layman is like an unknown language so you need to talk to your medical professionals about that.
Over my 26 years I have also been diagnosed with Asbestosis, had a heart attack and had investigations for both bowel and prostrate cancers….. thankfully these proved to be negative.
Based on my long experience the bottom line in this is….. you can throw all the stress and anxiety you can must up at this……. but the only thing it will achieve is make your stress and anxiety worse and then you get more ill….. you need to be as fit and mentally switched in when going into a cancer journey.
In this journey……
Some things are outside your control.
Some things are within your control.
Spending a little time figuring out the difference can help you feel more in control.
The space between the ears can be the strongest or weakest link in our journey
Navigating the cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type can help a lot.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms)………… once you have a clear indication as to what this is do have a look through this link Cancer Specific Groups you will find all our dedicated cancer support groups listed.
These groups are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from members who are navigating the exact same journey.
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.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
