Hi,
feeling very overwhelmed. What should be a new chapter in my life has been completely blindsided. I retired at the end of December and preparing to move house in February to another part of the country. Noticed pain in lower abdomen extending to back, now on 2 week pathway waiting to be seen. I know this could be a diagnosis that I am dreading. I am trying not to breakdown in front of my children, who are dealing with their own challenges and it is so hard.
Hi Henbyrad and welcome to the Macmillan Community but so sorry to hear about your ongoing diagnosis.
Navigating the diagnosis journey can be such a stressful and challenging time.
I have been on my cancer journey with 2 rare types of Lymphoma for over 25 years - first diagnosed at 43. Just a few years back I also had lower abdomen pain extending to my back and due to my past cancer history (one of my Lymphomas is incurable) I was checked out quickly. A few weeks of tests and nothing was found….. put down to ‘one of these things’
But if you do find that you do receive a cancer diagnosis getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type can help a lot.
This New to Community area 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 actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms)………… so if you are diagnosed with a type of cancer do have a look through this link Cancer Specific Groups you will find all our dedicated cancer support groups listed.
These groups are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from members who are navigating the exact same journey.
In the meantime the Macmillan Support Line is open between 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 or just a listening ear.
Do get back to me if you need further help or just want to chat ((hugs))
Henbyrad the one thing as a family we have come to realise that until you are actually told you have cancer you don’t!!!
My medical story (LINK) is long and complicated… and over all these years I have had more false alarms than I have had confirmed medical issues….. but I am now 9+ years out from my last treatment…. I turn 70 at the end of this year and I am still living a great life ((hugs))
