I was diagnosed with sigmoid bowel cancer with liver mets in December 2020. I had an emergency colostomy on Boxing Day 2020. whilst I was in hospital my husband was admitted with severe covid pneumonia and just avoided ITU thanks to research study medication. We didnt see each other for 6 weeks. In 2021 I had chemo then 2 more ops as I was fortunate to be eligible for liver surgery. So now Im transitioning from active treatment to follow up - very strange time! Ive just completed the Macmillan Hope online course and it was brilliant
Hi chyanros and welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to see you joining us. As cancer diagnosis can be a very stressful and challenging time for all the family at the best of times then came covid. I am glad to hear that you are out the other end and you found the Hope Course helpful and also to hear that your husband did not have a hard time with covid. 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 you can be signpost to our various cancer support groups and other services so can I recommend that you consider joining our supportive Bowel (colon and rectum) cancer and Liver, secondary cancer groups. These are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get and give 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) and you are ready to go.
You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post and as always you can reply to existing ‘Discussions’ by click [reply].
You may also find our Life after cancer group helpful as well.
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 when on a cancer journey (patient or family) can be very helpful 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 and provide support for all the family.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best ((hugs))
Hello chyanros
I wanted to say hello and give you a hug. Wow you’ve been through so much.
I have found this community so supportive on my journey. There’s so many people with great advice.
I hope your husbands doing well
Take care
Ann
