Hi - as of two weeks ago, my world has caved in around me.I heard five words that are now continuously running around in my head in a loop “you have a brain tumour”. Since then, I have been overwhelmed by all the obvious emotions and questions - why me?, why now.?, am I going to die?, how long? Etc. but the worst feeling of all is hitting me every few minutes when I realise, I am doing something, hearing something, seeing something that I did two weeks ago when I was just a regular guy enjoying his ‘normal’ life - no matter how many friends and family say “stay positive”. Every morning I get the feeling “what is there to get up for today” this then sends lots of other emotions - am I being selfish as I still have family and friends who care and I need to get up for them (even if they are not always here). I also feel so guilty as I wish this disease had been given to someone else and not me. Everyone around me seems to be getting on with their ‘normal’ life but not me. I cannot see a way out of this totally negative way of thinking and desperately need some help to navigate my way out. I am hoping this situation resonates with someone out there who has managed to overcome some if not all of what I am feeling - bless you if you are there ( I am not a person of faith and have had a number of people talk to me about this but it hasn’t helped - yet.
Hi 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 Brain tumours 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 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.
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 and aim to give support to all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help.
All the very best.
