Hi,
My Dad was recently diagnosed with throat cancer - this came as quite a shock to myself and my family. Since the diagnosis I've been struggling to cope and process what's happened. There's a lot of worry about what will happen and as we've had to wait for test results, we still don't know how the cancer is affecting him, which is only increasing my anxiety.
I've taken a couple of days of work this week as I've been feeling physically and mentally strained as I'm also trying to make sure that everyone around me is ok. I was wondering if anyone knows of a chat group that would be suitable for me. This feels like a very surreal experience so I do appreciate any forms of support.
Thank you.
Hi Nae94 and a warm welcome to the Online Community although so sorry to hear about your dad’s diagnosis. It can be such a hard time for all the family but I do hope you will find lots of comfort and support from people who understand here on the Online Community.
The Online Community has many dedicated support groups so can I recommend you start by joining our Head and neck cancer group. This is a safe place to talk to other people who might have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience or are supporting someone on their cancer journey.
If you'd like to connect in with this group, you need to join the group. First click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens up 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.
