I’m 64. Went to GP about 5 weeks ago with stomach pain. I was asked if I’d had any problems with womb etc. I said I’d had complete hysterectomy some years ago. Was examined and GP requested blood/stool/scan. GP phoned me about a week later and said that the blood test showed CA125 raised. Then went on to say she was sending me to a gynaecologist, as it usually means ovarian cancer. I explained again I had my ovaries removed.
GP then said to have an urgent CT scan. Well, I’m already starting to get really concerned and worried.
I had the scan and GP phoned me that night and said there was cancer all in my abdomen, in lymph nodes and that they couldn’t find the ‘primary”, whatever that means. GP just said I’m sorry over and over. GP put me on pathway and I’m now waiting for an appointment at the hospital. I’ve been told it takes 2 weeks and it’s only been a week now. I can’t eat, I’m having night sweats, anxiety. I feel as though my life has fallen apart after that phone call. I’m crying all the time. Advice is to keep your mind off it all by staying busy. But how? I don’t work, I’m retired, but I don’t know how people carry on with their lives and “act normal’. I’m devastated. Please help, anyone.
Hi PickledPuffin and a warm welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your diagnoses.
A cancer journey is such a stressful and challenging time but you have done the right thing in reaching out to a place where you can ask questions and getting support from others who are on the ‘exact’ same cancer 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.
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.
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.
