Having been diagnosed with a tumour on my left kidney which was removed on the 11th March I feel like I'm living someone else's life I just want to be the old me . Work has been brilliant but I justant to get my life back. I feel like bursting into tears every day I need to get final answers from my surgeon this week and hopefully get my life back on track even writhing this I'm getting tearful with frustration
It is scary having a kidney removed and wondering what the future holds. I had my right kidney out in April 2022. My work were very unsupportive and I decided to retire. Things haven't gone as well as I would have hoped and I have got quite down because of other lesser health issues that have stopped me doing all the things I planned to do in my retirement. I was very low last week when I saw a physio for the first time and she asked me what my hobbies were and all I could say was reading. On the drive home I thought about all the things I used to enjoy doing and decided I have got to get back into doing some of the things I used to enjoy. I managed to do a little gardening at the weekend and have joined a couple of online Yoga classes with the Penny Brohn UK Centre, classes for people with/ recovering or supporting someone with cancer. A good level to get me back into doing somethig I used to enjoy but have lost the ability to join in the classes I used to attend.It has helped to lift my mood. I have been diagnosed with small lung metastists after Immuntherapy had to be stopped as it didn't agree with me. I want to get stronger to fight what ever may come in the future but also to make the most of my life.
Please take one small step at a time to get your life back and become the old you. You have been through a lot and give yourself time to heal physically and mentally. Of course go for counselling or speak to your GP if you are still feeling down in a few days.
Best of luck
Thank you. I was hoping to go back to work next week but they want me to take a couple more weeks off. I work in childcare and it can be stressful do want me to leave it for a bit. I'm not in any phical pain and haven't been for a couple of weeks. Need to start getting back into work/life routine
You have been through a lot and it is very important to take time for both your body and mind to recover…. jumping back into work could have a counter effect.
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.
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2024 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007