Hi,
My partner has just been diagnosed with cancer from a biopsy in the lymph nodes. She had a scan last week to locate the source and will hopefully find out where it is in her body. My wife works abroad and has returned to the UK for tests. I remain abroad with our two children (8 & 9). We have not told the children that something is wrong because we do not know the whole story ourselves yet. Separation is difficult for both her and us but we try to keep it together as best as we can.
Hi and welcome to the Online Community but I am so sorry to read about your partners ongoing cancer investigations and the challenges you face being separated while she is back in the UK but I do hope you will find the support available in the community helpful at this difficult and challenging time.
Talking with others who are walking the exact same type of cancer treatment support path will help you navigate this unwanted journey.
The community is divided up into different cancer support groups so once you know the exact type of cancer have a look through this list and join the appropriate group for her cancer type as these groups will be good places 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 choose 'click to join' or 'join' on the group page when it 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).
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 and possibly Living with cancer outside the UK groups where you will connect with others supporting family and friends
You may find some of these Macmillan resources helpful on understanding childrens' reactions and also talking to children when an adult has cancer. You can also download this booklet.
It’s always good to talk so do call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 (Outside the UK +44 207 091 2230) - 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, emotional support 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.
