I need to be there as my partner's been diagnosed with rectal cancer but as of this moment we don't have the answers of how bad it is, she's had 3 weeks in hospital so far and had a storma operation and biopsies with scans, I've been off a month with a sick note so I can be there to keep everything going.
I've already taken time over over the past 15 months here and there because my mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer last June, she has reached her 70th birthday today which none of us were expecting this time last year, also my Labrador was diagnosed with cancer but after he had a toe removed he's been given the all clear,.
Luckily someone in the company has spoken to myself and advised me to follow my doctors orders and have time with my partner as I was in no fit state myself to work, I'm still not happy with the prospect of not being there for her and my mental health is shot, I don't know what to do for the best and I can't talk to my partner because it's not fare me dumping more problems onto her already troubled plate.
I was told to take as much time as I needed, so because we are not at the point of knowing how severe this diagnosis is for my partner, I feel I need to stay away from work until we know more. Unfortunately the prospect of actually losing my job and not being able to support my partner financially is always there in my mind.
Hello Ian.S and a warm welcome to the MacMillan community.
A cancer diagnosis can come as a shock and you are in the right place for help and advice. The Community is divided up into forums or chat rooms and I would suggest you join the Bowel (colon and rectal) cancer forum . To do this click on the link provided and once the page open up click on "join" on the black banner at the bottom of the page. You will then be able to join in with conversations and post your own questions.
You may also find that by joining Carers only forum you will be able to find help and advice in looking after your partner.
As you say with the prospect of possibly losing your job and the financial implications you can obtain some great help and financial advice by calling our helpline on 0808 808 00 00 if the need arises.
I hope the above helps and if I can do anything else for you in navigating the site please do get back in touch.
I send you my best wishes - Brian.
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