I have recently had an operation to remove a large necrotic tumour from my bladder, only 80% could removed and it is muscle invasive. It has spread to 2 lymph nodes and possibly to my lungs. I came home with a catheter as I was unable to empty my bladder properly. I am awaiting a CT scan of my lungs and a treatment plan. I am beginning to feel very overwhelmed at times, keep having a little cry and keep asking myself ‘why me’. My husband is very supportive and I am trying hard to be positive but it is difficult at times. I have an adult son with autism who is quite dependent on me for emotional support (fortunately he does not live with me ) and a daughter with long Covid who also needs support. It’s hard but I know that I must try putting my own needs first.
Hi Ellie May 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 try and direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms).
So can I recommend you join and post in some of our dedicated support groups. These groups are safe places to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
To connect in with the group please click on the link below
…… then once the group page opens click in the [Black - Click to Join - Banner] that appears at the bottom of the page and this will then confirm that you have joined the group.
When you are ready……. you can introduce yourself by putting up your very own post by clicking [+ Create new post] or [ + ] in the top right of the group page.
You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
You may also want to have a look at our……
Living with incurable cancer - incurable patients only (Please join the group but for everyones safety this will then have to be approved by the Macmillan Community Team so will not happen immediately)
…… support group.
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.
