Hi, I'm very wobbly about doing this but here goes! My husband was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer 6 months ago. He has been taking part in a research project and is responding well to hormone therapy., His PSA is the number we've been told about and it has dropped dramatically but I have just been reading about Gleason numbers and TNM scores and realised that we have not been told about either of these things. I am frightened to ask about them. We have been coping by trusting in the Consultant's prognosis of a good few years yet and the fact the my husband's health seems to have improved. Do we need to know these numbers in detail? Would we have to quote them if we try for travel insurance? It may seem naive , like trying to bury my head in the sand but I am really anxious about finding out more details about the reality of his cancer. Thank you for any support you can offer.
Hi July14 and a very warm welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about your husbands diagnosis. This is such a challenging and stressful time for you all but I do hope you will find lots of support and comfort as you connect in with the Online Community.
The New to Community is like our reception desk where we can signpost you to our various cancer specific support groups and other services so can I recommend that in the first instant you consider joining our supportive Prostate cancer group. This will be a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions, get support and talk with others who are supporting family and friends on their journey.
If you'd like to connect in with a group, you do need to join the group. Click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens 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 hit ‘Start a Discussion in New here, say hello’ and you are ready to go.
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 on their cancer journey you may benefit from joining our supportive Carers only group where you will connect with others supporting family and friends
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides cancer information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. You may also find our Ask an Expert section helpful but do allow a few working days for a reply.
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 help a lot but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best ((hugs))
