Hello,
I'm 56 and have recently been diagnosed with primary unknown cancer (PUC) after having a very fast growing lump on my neck removed last month. As Its PUC, it means that my cancer is advanced, already also in my lungs and lymph nodes in the groin.
I have finished the first round of chemo and start again a week today. I am dreading it/ can't wait to get on with it in equal measure. They won't give me any idea on my prognosis until after a scan following my third chemo session so I'm in limbo. As its an aggressive cancer, it doesn't feel very positive.
Having PUC is also quite isolating as I don't 'belong to a cancer group'. Its vey difficult to get any information about head and neck PUC so I'm feeling quite alone.
I'm hoping that I'll find some people in the same situation on these boards.
Thanks for reading!
Hi RHS and a welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your diagnoses.
This is such a stressful and challenging time for you, but when it comes to getting support and asking questions 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 recommend you join and post in our supportive Unknown primary cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others with 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) Group Link 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.
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 and aim to give support to all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help.
