Hi, not a club we thought as a family we would belong to. It’s all very new and obviously nothing is happening quickly enough, especially with strikes and the holidays. I’ve done the uncontrolled crying, denial (life will be carrying on normally), not wanting to discuss it and now becoming frustrated and angry. Everyone who knows is rallying around us and being supportive and helpful as they can be. However, I’m in the frontline of support as it’s my partner that has the diagnosis and I’m at a loss as to what to do. My partner has changed - the leader is now the lead. With the first rush of appointments, phone calls, tests and the never ending wait for results gone it’s really unnervingly quiet. Today we heard an appointment has been made for a Port to be inserted - no other info. My partner went into themselves, almost depressed or is it a realisation of this is not going away and the road ahead is going to be tough - has anyone else seen this reaction? So many apologies being made.
I suppose what I’m after is any ideas/suggestions/things that anyone has found useful, helpful or darn right irritating or waste of money (although a good idea at the time). What should I be looking out for re; reaction to Port/Chemo etc. From reading this post you probably realise I like to manage/feel I have some control. Any suggestions etc gratefully received.
Hi Stargirl22 and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your partners 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) but you don’t say what type of cancer he has but if you care to have a look through THIS LIST you will find all our many dedicated cancer support groups listed.
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 (Bold) link I have created above and look for the group for his cancer then 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 (I do see you have joined these) 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.
Hi New journey and a welcome to you as well. Most people will admit that the early days leading up to a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan can be the hardest part but once you have all the information do use the link above to find the group for your cancer type.
