Hi
I was told a few days ago that I have some kind of upper GI cancer. Probably Oesophageal and/or stomach. I am 75 live alone with all children living in USA and Asia
i have a gastroscopy tomorrow and a PET scan soon to ascertain extent and primary. It seems there is involvement elsewhere also
As an ex nurse I am outwardly calm and pragmatic. Inside I am terrified. I think the waiting for a definitive diagnosis and formulation of a treatment plan is the worst.
Once I know what I am dealing with and the MDT have formulated a plan going forward, then I think I shall be a bit less all over the place
I am not really functioning properly, I am flitting from one job to another. Worrying so much about my kids so far away, sorting out spare rooms, looking at my Advanced Decision and my Will!
Any suggestions how to manage this massive anxiety would be helpful
Hi and warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community although sorry that you had to find us and especially sorry to hear about your ongoing cancer diagnosis. This time is hard and made more challenging as your family are not around but once a plan is in place the noise between your ears will calm down.
A cancer diagnosis does bring many questions but talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer treatment journey will help you navigate this challenging time.
The Community is organised into support groups so can I recommend you join our supportive Gullet (oesophagus) cancer tumour and Stomach cancer group, this will be a good place to connect with patients and families navigating the same type of cancer journey.
To join a group just click on the link above then choose 'click to join' or 'join' (depending on the device you're using) on the page that opens.
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘New Thread’ or hit the box with the X on the top right (phones), you could just copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
It’s always good to talk and the Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here to see what is available and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers can be found on our Online Information and Support Section.
All the very best
