Hello everyone
I was diagnosed with lung cancer yesterday and the consultant is recommending surgery. I had a x-ray just before Xmas which showed a shadow and I have been having the usual tests since then. Rightly or wrongly I never told my loved ones. I didn't want them to worry as it could have been an infection or inflammation though I was 99% sure it was cancer. So now I have the painful task of telling them -3 adult children, girlfriend and cat. I don't know what to say to them. I feel very guilty and ashamed(smoker). I also feel very scared. Not so much about whether the surgery will be successful, it's about whether I will survive the surgery. The consultant did inform me of the type of cancer and the type of surgery though I didn't take it in. I have left a message for the Macmillan nurse asking about that.
Good luck to everyone
X
Hi and a warm welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about your Lung cancer diagnosis. This is such a challenging and stressful time for you but I do hope you find the community a safe place to get support and ask your questions.
The New to Community is like our reception desk where we can signpost you to our various cancer specific support groups and other services. I do see you have already joined our supportive Lung Cancer group. This will be a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens you can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using). You will then see a dropdown menu so hit ‘Chat’ or ‘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.
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, practical 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))
Hi. I’m in a different group however my sister in law had a lung cancer diagnosis two and half years ago. She had the operation to remove the bottom lob and she is amazing. She needed some mop up chemo afterwards and she’s now doing so well.
Telling family is the hardest thing. I tried to be really calm with a positive slant but that all fell apart after ten minutes when they got upset. I kept a positive attitude when with them and laid my fears here.
This community is amazing.
I hope you join you’re group and connect with friends that have the same.
Good luck
Ann
