Hi everyone, a total newbie here. My new husband (August 2022 wed but been together for 20+ years) took unwell a month ago with acute lower abdo pain resulting in a hospital stay a few days ago. A barrage of tests followed with a diagnosis of polycystic kidney and liver disease and kidney stones. Unfortunately the CT urogram scan also showed a lower left kidney malignancy with resultant spread to lymph nodes bilaterally. To say we are both numb is an understatement. He is home now awaiting the outcome of the meeting which takes place 1st December.
Both of us are floundering around with a barrage of emotions and feelings, so all support welcome.
Hi Lindihop and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your husband's diagnosis. A cancer diagnosis in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but I do hope you will find the Community a safe place to get support and to ask your questions.
The Community is divided into support groups (discussion rooms).... I see that you have already joined our supportive Kidney cancer support group, you may also want to look at our Lymph nodes, secondary cancer support group.
These groups are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis and treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family members who are navigating the same journey.
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
When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting family you may also benefit from joining our general Family and friends and Carers only support groups where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
The Macmillan Support Line is open from 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 where you can talk with someone about specific cancer and practical information, get emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just connect with 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.
Please do get back to me if you need further help.
