Hello, my name is Sr. Michaela. I am about to start chemo for cancer of the esophagus this week. I live in a religious community of sisters. Just finding it all overwhelming at the moment.
Hi Sr. Michaela and a very warm welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about your diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis can indeed be stressful, challenging and overwhelming in so many ways 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 support groups and other services.
Can I first recommend that you consider joining our supportive Gullet (oesophagus) 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 (Bold) link I have created above. Then once the group 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].
We also have our dedicated Religion, spirituality and prayer group where you can connect in with other Christians who are navigating their cancer journey. I have found this group to be a great support over my many years on my blood cancer journey.
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 or just a listening ear and our Cancer Nurse Team in 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.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
Blessings.
