Good question . I think the mental health impact is as important as the physical impact . Our helpline team might be able to point you to resources within your own area. 0808 808 0000. Or guide you in how to access them .
I will also ask the admin team if they can contribute any other information.
I have included a booklet that gives the details of the counselling association.
But I will ask to see what is happening during covid .
Take care and I am glad you are safely through surgery .
I had mine done in May'19......& for the first couple of months, I felt as though I had been in some surreal dream & needed some help to clear my head somewhat, & move forward emotionally (not just physically.) & so, I mentioned this to my colorectal nurse team...that had been on the end of a phone line since the start of my journey (& still are, if I need them.) They immediately arranged for me to have some counselling. Admittedly, it was a long waiting list...at least a few months....but eventually I saw somebody for a 1 hour session. I could have had more, but by then I didn't deem it necessary. Presumably, you have such a team available to you also? If so, I would get in touch with them first.
For the past six months, whilst on Chemo. The majority of my consultations from my Oncologist have been telephone ones....Could the same not be provided for you at this time? It might be worth asking. Obviously, face to face is the ideal, but just having a voice listening at the end of a line can be extremely helpful.
Hello Patrick67, I finished chemo radiation 5 weeks ago for a curitive bowel cancer. I have had awful anxiety from when my surgery was cancelled in July so I took this option. The waiting has been nerve racking waiting for scans which are not going to be for another 2 weeks. I was lucky enough to have a friend who friend is a therapist so I have to pay but it’s a bit cheaper. Decided I’m using the money on my self and maybe no Christmas presents this year, but for now I’m putting my self first. I have found the Macmillan nurses amazing. I was told that from a follow up appointment next week I would have a 6 week wait. Have you tried I cope.? Nelly 1955
Hi I have asked admin to have a look at the guidance during Covid for accessing resources. Hopefully there is some information available.
Nelly1955 That in itself is a great present to your family . I am so glad you are spending some time and money on your wellbeing. Hope it is helping you .
Thank you for your reply Court, hope all is well with your mum and yourself. I have a follow up appointment Wednesday haven’t a clue what to ask because the answers I really want won’t be until after the scans. No one can come in with me so my daughter is going on loud speaker, I’d better remember my phone. My husband will take me but my daughter will be better on the phone she takes notes. In assuming it’s not a telephone conversation because maybe do you need a blood test to see how you are after treatment. I hop3 I didn’t come over as selfish but I do need the therapy and my kids are all adults and we have always put them first. I think a lot of places especially during COVID the wait can be long. Take care. Nelly 1955 oh I just want to say I find the Macmillan nurses so kind informative and just amazing so the biggest thank you to them
