Hi there. Hope you are all having a good or at least a decent day. I've just signed up. Not sure why but just need to engage with someone other than family and friends. Just received a cancer diagnosis. Been supporting spouse who also has been living with cancer and was in remission for years but relapsed last week. Pretty rubbish situation but I'm sure some of you folks are dealing with far worse (although I hope not).
Hi ZakZara and a warm welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about both your spouses and your cancer diagnosis. This is such a challenging and stressful time for you all 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.
You don’t say what type of cancer your spouse and you have but if you care to have a look through this list you will find all our many dedicated cancer support groups listed.
These will be safe places 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 click on the Green link I have created above. Then once find the correct groups 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 or + (Depending on the device you are using). You will then see a dropdown menu so hit ‘Chat’or ‘New here, say hello’ and you are ready to go.
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.
