Hello and coping advice

Hi there

So sorry to hear about your shock diagnosis too and glad you are managing to cope and finding help here. The encouraging stories really help in those dark moments. I hope we both manage to get into the 'stable mabel' club. 

I know the Chairman of The SM Club, Mr Remoh, I am confident of a fast acceptance for you both with no money changing hands!

Hi Norberry

Good to know you're well connected! I hope you're right for all of us. You are obviously a very positive chap. What are your top tips for keeping positive when those dark thoughts just won't shift from the mind?

Hello Tdas. You can't get rid of every niggle but you will definitely learn to live with what's happening to you.

Over time you will notice that you are not driving yourself mad every minute of the day, normal life will take over again and there will not be time to wear yourself out worrying.

I never thought I would go a minute without thinking of cancer, when I went to bed, when I woke up  in the middle of the night and when I woke in the morning but I did, you will, everyone does.

This forum is populated with smart people who can advise when possible and sympathise when needed. When you are worrying, post on here with your rants and worries and let them sort you out.

Onwards and upwards. Xxxxxx

I often come here when I'm having intractable thoughts, there is almost always something to distract me, otherwise i do lots of online word games and puzzles; futoshiki, sudoku, aquarium, battleships, words with friends, scrabble, crosswords etc. I used to read a lot, but I often don't have the concentration for that, so I save reading for good days because otherwise I feel sad and frustrated. 

One thread here that I like is three good things, it is always a good place to help you concentrate on the positives, there are days when I really have to dig deep to get to three, but they are balanced by the days when three is not enough, I don't often post them, but I often count them.

Hi Tdas 10 years ago I was told I had kidney cancer that had spread to my pelvic bone so was classed as incurable but thanks to several treatments I am still here and enjoying life. A very different life to the one I planned but a happy life. I am currently receiving immunotherapy monthly and recently had the results of the first scan since starting and I have responded extremely well so yet another life line.

I vividly remember going Into practical mode and getting my life in order financially, will writing etc and when that was done I took everything as it came good or bad. I have good support from family and friends but did find some that I was sure would be there when needed weren't and others that weren't close turned out to be the best.  There is also an amazing amount of virtual support here even by just reading others stories you realise you are far from alone.

Hi Salis

Thankyou for your post - some good tips on distraction there - I definitely need to get my mind off constant cancer thoughts. I've even bought some knitting needles and wool but haven't quite got started yet. I will take a look at the 'three good things' too - thankyou.

Hi Elliekate - thankyou for sharing your story with me. It is so helpful to me to hear such positive stories. I'm starting my immunotherapy next week so I am really hoping that I get a good response like you. I really hope that your treatment continues to go well. 

I've done some knitting too! I'm not a great knitter, and my fingers are even less adept since chemo, but I've managed to contribute squares to family projects for new babies and other new family members 

Thank you, I hope the treatment goes smoothly for you.