In the past two and a half years, I have been diagnosed with and successfully treated for two different types of primary cancer - NHL and lung cancer.
I'm really struggling to pick up the pieces and move forward.
Hi Lolie and I see you are in Australia so welcome to the Macmillan Community although I am always sorry to see folks joining us. I am Mike and I help out around our various Lymphoma groups.
I was diagnosed back in 1999 with a rare, incurable type of NHL (CTCL) Stage 4a so although my Lymphoma ‘type’ may be different I understand the challenges of the journey rather well.
It is a hard and emotional journey especially when you have had to fight on two fronts. You will see from my profile (hit my community name) I have developed a number of post treatment ‘left over’ medical conditions along with a few long term conditions so yes, it can be draining.
I think that I have had time to develop the ability to deal with all the ‘stuff’ that comes along. At times it’s all about dealing with one bump at a time but I and I have to say my family, have been very focused on the importance that we would not let my cancer (and other health issues) define us but we would strive to define how we live this ‘precious life’ that I have been given to live.
I don’t know what face to face support platforms you have available in your area but I have found the benefits of connecting in with this type of support (that Macmillan and other cancer support providers) provide as it’s good to take time to unpack the ‘stuff’ you carry around in the invisible rucksack that you were given when you started your journey.
You may find it helpful to make a cuppa and have a look at this great paper After Treatment Finishes - Then What? by Dr Peter Harvey as it highlights the post treatment milestones.
Happy to chat more and help if I can.
