Hi to you all, I'm gutted that I'm having to join this group but also glad I've found it and helpful to know I'm not alone as I feel a little broken right now.
My dad who is 75 has been having tests for the last few months for prostate cancer initial psa level was 9.2, on Monday we had an appointment to discuss the outcome of all the tests and his biopsy etc, we were told he had low grade cancer and wouldn't need treatment but would have his levels checked every 3 months, we walked away feeling slightly relieved although still a little on edge at the C word but have spent the last few days excepting that it's good news.
Today however 4 days later my dad recieved a phone call from the hospital to say his biopsy culture is growing and these results have been discussed with the cancer team and he now needs treatment.
This has thrown us all into worry and turmoil so I'm just here to maybe get some positive views and to help stop me from thinking the worst and that I'm going to lose my dad.
We just can't get our head around the change of plan so quickly.
Thank you for reading.
Hi Twizzle1001 and a very warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but sorry to hear about your dad's diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type or support challenges will help you a lot……. I have a completely different type of cancer and treatment journey.
This New to Community area is like our reception desk where we try to direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms).......... but I do see that you have already joined our dedicated Prostate cancer support group. This group is a safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family members who are navigating the same support journey.
As for the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your dad and indeed yourself you may benefit from joining and posting in our……
……. support group where you will connect with a wide range of members navigating the exact same support challenges.
To connect with a group click on the “Bold Italic Links” I have created above …… 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.
It is an emotional time supporting family so you might find this Macmillan information your feelings when someone has cancer helpful as well as this link getting help with your emotions.
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 support all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
Hello Twizzle1001
Another warm welcome to the Macmillan online community from me.
I am Brian and i hang around on the Prostate Cancer Community - i have been undergoing treatment for 30 months and am fine at this moment.
I see you have taken Mike's (Thehighlander) advice and joined the Prostate Community but have not posted yet. Why not introduce yourself in the "New here - Say Hello" section. We are a great bunch and you will find lots of friendly help and advice there. I look forward to "meeting you" on our Community.
Best wishes - Brian.
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.
I am a Macmillan volunteer.
