Got that phone call!

Please share with your friends and family for emotional support. Stay strong 

Ghaz

Welcome 

You have found a good place to come to for support and understanding . Most people that pass through here come as the initial diagnosis is overwhelming. They too wonder how they would get through the initial diagnosis. However bowel cancer caught early has lots of treatments and I am going to tag in a few people to share . Kareno62 and Artsie. 
They have walked these paths and will give you some understanding of the early days experience. What is frequently mentioned here once the treatment plan is in place things get a lot easier . The clinical pathway is laid out and gives a lot more hope and direction .

We are here to help you each step of the way . There is a powerhouse of information and sharing that goes on . Any questions you have we will do our best to answer . My own mum was a late diagnosis but with the help of her incredible team she is out living her life 13 years later .

Our helpline staff would love to hear from you on 0808 808 0000 . They cover the emotional aspects to . Could link you in with some support . I have asked Macmillan to have a look for some supports for you . Don’t hesitate to contact NHS 111 or the Samaritans if you need someone to chat to . We are all here with you till this eases .

Take care .

Court 

Hi  and a warm welcome from me too. Yes this is a very stressful time and the next couple of weeks will be a flurry of scans, tests, bloods and meetings. Once you have a treatment plan in place then things will honestly feel a bit better.

As Court says Bowel cancer is very treatable especially if caught early. Please stay away from google - it is out of date and downright scary in places - you can ask anything you like on here - there is nothing too daft or embarrassing.

I don’t like people worrying about me but realised that they wanted to support me and were more worried that there was something that I wasn’t telling them.

Please don’t give up. If you don’t want to worry your family then ring the helpline on here or your own doctor might be able to help you with some medication if you’re struggling with sleeping for example.

I was diagnosed in July 2016 and had the tumour removed in November 2016 - I’m still cancer free - it can be tough but it’s doable and we’re here to help you through this

Take care

Karen x

Hi there MRG

The stress and anxiety is the worst part. I floundered with the flight and fright feelings and was unable to do either. Just had to wait.I found it so hard telling my grown children and I left it until I had the treatment plan. They knew about my tests and I tried stay positive with them My husband was my rock and my siblings knew and were really supportive. 
Just do what you need to, I watched TV ate food I liked and tried to do a little exercise. I listened to mindfulness apps and similar on my phone. It gave my head some space and stopped me thinking about it. 
Once you get the treatment plan then things will be easier. You can be proactive in organising whatever is needed. 
Here I have had so much support, please ask any questions. 
if you click on peoples names you can read there bio. 

Thank you Ghaz, much appreciated.

Thank you so much Ann. I have an appointment next week and feeling a bit more positive.

Thank you so much Karen, I am feeling more positive now. I have my appointment next week. Once I find out what's what, ill tell my family. Im just trying to keep my mind occupied until then.

Absolutely, this is the best way, keep yourself distracted and stay positive

That’s the way. Breathe deep and write down questions that you may want to ask if it helps. I didn’t but some do  
Any thoughts pop on here if it helps. 
good luck at the appointment