Hello,
I am not sure how best to start something like this but I guess to start somewhere, I can give you some background.
I am currently a 32 y/o man and had been suffering with abdominal pains since October 2020. In January of 2022 It was found that I was suffering with anaemia and in February extensive tests began. I was diagnosed with an adenocarcinoma in my jejunum on the 31st May this year. Since then I have had small bowel resection surgery in mid June to remove part 3 and 4 of my duodenum and 30 cm of my small bowel.
Due to the rare nature of my cancer I am now participating in something called the BALLAD trial which has randomised me to have two chemotherapy drugs (oxaliplatin and capecitabine) . I started this on Thursday 4th and last treatment is scheduled for 29th December.
I am scared of what the future holds for me and just wondered if anyone else on here is part of the study and how they have been doing?
Thank you in advance <3
Hi RossC22 and welcome to the Online Community although I am sorry to see you joining us and to hear about your diagnoses. A cancer diagnosis can be such a stressful and challenging time but when it comes to support there is nothing better than talking with others who are on the exact same cancer and treatment journey.
The Community is divided into support groups (discussion rooms) so can I suggest that you consider joining our supportive Bowel (colon and rectum) cancer group. This is 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(s) I have created above. 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.
Macmillan have many support services so do check out the Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. These services provide cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.
We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply. We also have our Telephone Buddy Service where you can be matched with someone who understands what you're going through, and they'll give you a weekly call.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
Give me a shout if you need further help.
All the very best.
