So I got told I have bladder cancer on 21st Dec. Until I see the consultant in charge of it, all I know is they are gonna 'cut it out' and 'fit me with a bag'
Anyhoo, I'm new to the site so I don't really know where to start.
Two things I did want to mention
1. I don't seem to feel much of anything about it. I'm scared of having an operation more than anything but most of all I've noticed I just seem to have no interest in anything anymore. I don't feel depressed in any way, but I can't watch a movie, I just don't seem to be able to hold interest in it. I used to be able to play video games for hours on end and now I've lost all interest.
2. I've only told a few people and I didn't know what to expect really. But I've found that the response usually starts with, "you probably should have had lived a healthier lifestyle". Well thanks for that I'll just jump in my time machine and get right on that. It kinda feels like the first response is saying like "well it's your fault" - Which may or may not be true, but I don't see how that helps in any way now..
Hi MagicMirror and a very warm welcome to the Community but sorry to hear about your diagnoses.
Navigating the cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from people who have walked the ‘exact same' cancer journey can help a lot. (I have a completely different cancer).
As for what people say....... just remember that most will have no idea as they most likely have not been in the same position...... talking with people who understand will help.
The New to Community is like our reception desk where we look to direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our dedicated Bladder Cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
To connect in with the group click on this link> Bladder cancer 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 introduce yourself 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.
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. 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.
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 give support to all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
