Hi everyone, I decided to join this forum to learn more about whats expected with this particular cancer as it most likely will be affecting a family member very soon.
This family member recently went to the doctors with some very mild complaints (pressure on the abdomen and they have already conducted a few tests (Colonoscopy, Ultrasound, CT - pending follow up)
Right now, even though it is not a full diagnosis and we are waiting on other tests, the doctors believe it to be secondary Peritioneal cancer (this is because the peritoneum has thickened and is no longer smooth) I have googled this and of course the general outlook online is very bleak. We are still hoping the final diagnosis will not be as bad as we think but we just have to wait and see.
I was wondering if many others have recieved this diagnosis and how their journey has been? This family member feels perfectly healthy so this potential news is quite a shock to us. I have listed some questions below:
Thank you
Hi Merel and a very warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but sorry to hear about your family members initial diagnosis. A cancer diagnosis in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type and support challenges will help a lot.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Specific Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) yoh could initially join our dedicated Peritoneal 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 support journey.
Once you know the primary have a look at THIS LIST where you will find all our many dedicated cancer support groups listed.
It will be an emotional time supporting your family member so you might find this Macmillan information your feelings when someone has cancer helpful as well as this link getting help with your emotions, you may also benefit from joining our dedicated Family and friends support group where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
To connect in with a group click on the “Bold Italic 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)
When you are ready you can put up your own post 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.
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. This service provides 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.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community but in the meantime all the very best.
