Hello
I’ve just joined. My partner has recently been diagnosed with Leydig cell testicular cancer. We are waiting to hear if it’s the malignant version or benign, and from there what next. We are not communicating very well, and I wonder what it’s like for him-he’s not articulate about his feelings at the best of times. So I wondered if anyone has any insights into what receiving a cancer diagnosis feels like, and/or if there’s a more specific group where I could learn about my partner’s cancer and how to support him and our young children.
thanks
KLA
Hi KLA and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your partners diagnosis. A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time, everyone reacts differently, some face up to their cancer diagnosis openly but others go into a little safety shell......... but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type and support challenges can help a lot.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you consider joining and posting in our supportive Testicular cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family members who are navigating the same journey.
When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting family and friends you may also benefit from joining our Carers only support group where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
To join a group first click on the “Bold Links” I have created above then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)
You can then put up your own post when you’re ready by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post. You can also scroll through other members posts and click “Reply” to get involved.
It’s a challenging time for you so you may want to use the Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service 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.
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.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
