My wife is attending the breast cancer clinic, tomorrow at Telford. We live in Shrewsbury and have no car. She will have to make her own way there, using public transport. Because of Covid, I cannot go with her, to give her support at this troubling time. Worse still, she will have to travel back alone, after being given a diagnosis that may well not be good news!
I want to be with her, it’s really taking its toll of me emotionally that I cannot give her support at this time!
This is our second cancer journey we have faced together. The first time was some fifteen years ago, in Blackpool. Say what you like about the town, but the treatment she got at the breast cancer clinic was in my view, exceptional. That level of care continued when we moved to Doncaster. She received further treatment at Sheffield, which did take it toll, but I was there to give her support throughout.
The lump, or growth, whatever you want to call it, is on the same side as the first one, which, as I understand it, if cancerous, rather does complicate dealing with it, as she has already had radiation treatment. Of course, our hope is, it will prove to be benign.
Hi Ted E Bear and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about the journey your wife is on and how Covid has restricted you from going to the appointment with her, this must have come as a shock but I do hope you will find lots of comfort and support from people who understand here on the Online Community.
The Community has many dedicated support groups so can I recommend you start by joining our Breast cancer group. This is a safe place to talk to other people who might have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience or are supporting family at this time.
If you'd like to connect into this group, you need to join the group. First click on the Green link I have created above. Then click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a new post by clicking in the box near the top right with + New (Computers) or + (Mobile Devices). You will then see a dropdown menu so why not hit ‘Start a Discussion in New here, say hello’
You could copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also search through existing ‘Discussions’ and click [reply] if you want to put up a comment.
When it comes to the practical challenges of supporting someone you may benefit from joining 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, emotional support, benefit and 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.
Talking to people face to face can indeed help a lot but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best.
