Hi my name’s Claire and I’m new to the forum. Last July I was diagnosed with a rare eye cancer and had to stay at Moorfield hospital in London for 6 days of intensive radiotherapy. It has been a very scary time. I had my first check in January and the good news is that my tumour has reduced from 3 to 2mm. The bad news is that I have double vision and DVLA have revoked my driving licence .. not great as I live on my own and am the main cater for my 83 year old mum! Life has changed dramatically for me in the past 8 months and I’m not liking the new life ..
Hi and welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about your diagnosis and the journey you have been on. 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 area is like our community reception desk where we then 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 Eye 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 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.
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.
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))
