Hi there, new to community. I decided to join to talk about my dad. Im struggling to come to terms with him having cancer. He’s got oesophageal cancer and the doctors think they can surgically remove the tumour, which I know is good all things considered, but he will also need chemotherapy which I also know can take it’s toll. He also has a heart condition and about 2 years ago had a triple heart bypass which even that I struggled with. I think the main thing is knowing he’s going to suffer and I can’t bare that thought, it’s not nice to think about your dad that way. He's only 59. I’ve never had to deal with cancer before so this is all new to me and you hear it in the news or stories from friends or colleagues but until you hear it from a loved ones mouth, you don’t realise how that small word can infect your life and how much of an impact that word has. I want to remain strong for him but I’m just finding it hard 
Hi and welcome to the Online Community.
I am so sorry to read about your dad’s diagnosis but I hope you will find the support available in the community helpful at this difficult and challenging time.
It is an emotional time supporting family so you might find this Macmillan information your feelings when someone has cancer helpful.
Talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer treatment support path (my one is completely different) will help you navigate this unwanted journey.
The New to Community is like the Community Reception area and as there are many cancer types and experiences so likewise the Community has many support groups so can I recommend you start by joining our supportive Gullet (oesophagus) cancerrain tumour group as this will be a good place for you to connect with other folks who may be on the same cancer treatment support pathway.
Navigating the community will depend on the device you are using. To join a group just click on the green link above then scroll down and choose 'click to join' or 'join' on the page that opens.
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a post by clicking on ‘New Thread’ or ‘New here, say hello’ then hit the box with the X on the top right (phones).
You could just copy and paste the text from this your first post and you can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
When it comes to the practical challenges of supporting someone you may benefit from talking with others caring for family and friends so can I recommend that you join our supportive Family and friends group where you will connect with others supporting family and friends
It’s always good to talk so do call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers check our Online Information and Support Section.
All the very best.
