Hi everyone, I had a cancer diagnosis just over two weeks ago - initially cervical but the results of biopsy show that it has probably spread from my bowel. I've been so scared and virtually paralysed by anxiety - I ended up getting some beta-blockers and diazepam from my gp. My colorectal mdt is meeting on Tuesday and they'll also have the ct scan results - I guess my biggest fear is that the cancer has spread to other places too. I've spoken to a couple of friends who have survived cancer and I've been listening to online meditation to try and stay calm, but it's been a really horrendous couple of weeks for me and my family. I'm 58, married, have 3 children in their 20s and a delightful 2yo granddaughter.
Hi RockieR 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).
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 Bowel 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> Bowel (colon and rectum) 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.
You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line 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 3 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.
Hi RockieR and can I join with Mike in welcoming you to the community.
What a terrible shock your diagnosis must have been for you, and I can understand what an awful time you have experienced since you were told.
I help out in the cervical cancer group and you may wish to join us there in addition to the bowel group as Mike has recommended to you. Although my diagnosis was cervical cancer I was able to have surgery almost 4 years ago which included removing my colon, along with a lot of other things so I may be able to help support you along with the very lovely bowel group members if you are able to have surgery. I have also had chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
You will know the plan after your mdt meets, and a way forward, and I would say that things become easier to deal with once you have this plan and know what you are facing.
The link to the cervical cancer group is in my signature (if you click on the bold letters “cervical cancer forum” it will take you there). It’s an overwhelming time for you at the moment but there will be help and support within the community from those of us who have gone through similar experiences.
Sarah xx
