I was diagnosed with breast cancer in July, started treatment in late August. Finished chemo a few weeks ago. Other treatment continues and will have operation at end of January (still to decide lumpectomy or full mastectomy).
My friends have been supportive but I still feel no-one really gets it. My mother, I don't think she knows how to support me and frankly often says pretty hurtful things that I then have to process on top of cancer related news. (I now see her and share less to manage this/to protect myself from extra stress.)
I'm worried about how I will support myself when sick pay changes to half pay, and how I will physically manage when recovering (I live alone).
Just feeling especially lonely at his time.
Any advice welcome.
Hi 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 Breast 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 (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.
