Hi, I was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer which was a mild surprise the doctor had been treating the cricket ball stuck in my trousers for infection. The big shock was being told it was probably a secondary cancer. The other surprise was to realise how little I new about cancer despite my mother dying from it and a large number of friends going through everything from discovery to remission. I'm avoiding looking at Google, the few times I weakened it was confusing, misleading or terrifying and some times all 3.
I had my staging CT Scan which I found mildly frightening because I'm profoundly claustrophobic but it was quick and the radiographers were fantastic. Sadly it took 36 hours to feel 'normal' (symptoms muzzy head and slight dizziness). I didn't feel the you've wet yourself sensation fortunately. So waiting with a little interest in the results - I'm not even sure when and how I will hear them.
Apparently my Testicular Cancer Tumour Markers are normal (I think that implies its still within the testicle.
Next stage is to have one Orchid (!) removed in 5 days - should improve my hayfever(?). To be honest that's the least worrying part of the process God gave me a spare all though that looked a bit sparkly in the ultrasound -a Glitterball.
The surgeon has speculated I have Lymphoma and will need Chemo and Radiotherapy so I think I'm about to become a frequent user of your site which has been very measured and informative. Thank you.
Despite the suggestion I will avoid sharing a photo.
PS Best T Shirt Idea so far... "The Others in the Albert Hall"
Hi Astigabay 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).
This New to Community area 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 our dedicated Testicular Cancer support group. This will be 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 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 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.
