Hello, I’m new here and wanted to introduce myself.
I’ve recently been diagnosed with a rare type of skin cancer affecting my right hand, and I’ve been told I will need to have my thumb amputated. I'm right handed. It’s been a lot to process, especially as there doesn’t seem to be much information available about this type in the UK, which has made it feel quite isolating. I’m still working and trying to keep everything going day to day, but I’m starting to feel the emotional impact of it all especially dealing with the awful pain of two recent surgeries. Some of the practical changes, particularly around dressing and everyday tasks, have been harder than I expected, and it’s affecting my confidence and mood quite badly.
I’m also juggling work and family life, and I think I’ve reached a point where I’d really value connecting with others who understand what this is like. I'm feeling quite isolated. My partner tries to help but I don't think he really understands how I'm feeling.
If anyone has been through something similar or has any advice, I’d really appreciate hearing from you.
Thank you.
Hi AnneJA and a very warm welcome to the online community which I hope you'll find is both an informative and supportive place to be.
I’m Anne, one of the Community Champions here on the Online Community, and I've had two different types of skin cancer.
I can see that you've already joined the skin cancer group and if you post there about the type of skin cancer you have you'll hopefully connect with others who have the same type as you.
It would be great if you could put something about your diagnosis and proposed treatment into your profile as it really helps others when replying to you and also when looking for someone on a similar pathway. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
