I'm new to the forum and haven't a clue how to use it.
But I know I need some communication with people in similar situations.
My son on 46 was diagnosed in mid Feb and still hadn't had any treatment yet as the surgeons have struggled to get decent biopsies samples. And we are all going out of our mind.
The cancer has spread and he is palliative only and thought to have stared in the appendix which is a very rare cancer.
The biopsy they are hope to get us to provide targeted therapy rather than standard chemo.
Obviously I have more to say, but I just want to test that my post is received
Thank you
Myboy
Hi Myboy and a warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but so sorry to hear about your son’s diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis in the family like this can be such a challenging and stressful time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer or cancer support challenges can help a lot.
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 as your son has no clear diagnosis yet i Ann not able to direct you to a specific cancer group…….. but once have more clarity you can 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 family members who are navigating the same journey.
Have a look through the LIST above and once you find the support group for your son’s cancer type....... click on the link and when the group page opens you will see a [Black - Click to Join - Banner] at the bottom of the page, click in this box 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.
As for the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your son and indeed yourself you may benefit from joining and posting in our……..
Carers only (if you are his/her caregiver)
Supporting someone with incurable cancer
……support groups where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
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.
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, 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.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
Hi again Myboy and I see that you have connected in with the various groups including our dedicated Peritoneal cancer group.
In my book, every cancer journey has a story to tell so let’s look for your son’s story to be a positive one ((hugs))
