Hello, I was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer last May. It is skin cancer, but internally. 2 surgical groups declined to do anything, as it was so close to my bowel and bladder. I was so scared that nothing would be done, but a doctor as Western Park took the case and as there were cervical cancer cells inside the mass, he treated me for that. I had 30 sessions of Radiotherapy and 6 chemo. I went through the treatment quite well. I did end with neuropathy, carpel tunnel and plantar fasciitis and as well as a severe lack of energy. But I did my physio everyday, did small walks with my dogs and started swimming, when lockdown allowed. I had a couple of PET scans to see if the reduced size mass was just scar tissue, which it was, but the scan showed up some more cancer. I was devastated. I looked healthy, my above symptoms were improving, I'd started doing reduced hours at work. Yet there was more cancer inside me. I feel scared, angry and very emotional. I struggle to voice my feelings and felt putting it in words might help. The plan is to do more Radiotherapy and chemo in September. This time I will lose my hair and probably a little more of my dignity!
Hi and warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community although sorry that you had to find us and especially sorry to hear about your diagnosis and ongoing challenges.
A cancer diagnosis can be challenging in so many ways but talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer treatment journey will help you navigate this difficult time.
The Community is organised into cancer specific support groups so can I recommend you join our supportive Skin cancer (we also have other Cancer specific groups) group as this will be a good place to connect with patients and families navigating the same type of cancer treatment 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.
((hugs))
