Hi, I’m new to the forum and I’m feeling a little nervous about posting as my partner doesn’t know. I’m waiting for him in Sainsbury’s car park while he spends the allotted 3 hours visiting time with his daughter at Addenbrookes. His ex wife is currently staying with their little girl there and they’re only allowed one visitor due to corona virus. so I’m just sitting here going slightly out of my mind with worry and thought I’d come on this forum.
We’ve been told that my little step daughter has a 3cm tumour in her brain stem which is about the worst place for it to be as it’s extremely hard if not impossible to operate let alone even get a biopsy. We should find out more on Monday but at the moment they don’t know if it’s cancerous or benign. We’re praying for the latter but even then if they can’t operate I don’t really know what this would mean. I’m scared to post incase all I receive is bad news stories, but any words of support would be so welcome at the moment. I’ve never experienced anything like this, we’re all so scared. Thanks so much in advance of any responses...
Hi and a very warm welcome to the online community
I don't know anything about brain tumours, as I had a different type of cancer, but I didn't want to leave you sitting in Sainsbury's car park on your own.
Waiting for tests and results is a really horrible time but you've done the right thing in reaching out to this community. Besides cancer specific groups there is also one for family and friends. It's a safe and supportive place to share your feelings and get support and you're welcome to join that in the same way as you joined this group.
If you're still sitting in the car park I'll be around for an hour or so if you want to chat.
Sending a supportive ((hug))
Hi Latchbrook
It means so much that you bothered to reply just for that reason. Thankyou. I’m actually now about to drive over and pick my other half up but there’ll be more 3 hour car park visits where I will be so grateful of the company from anyone on here no doubt! Thankyou so much, I think I’ll be pleased I joined this forum. Take care x
No problem . Perhaps we'll speak again.
x
Hi again, I’ve been waiting in the car park again today but I’ve had the company of my older step daughter who’s 13. She isn’t even allowed to see her little sister at the moment because of Covid but she wanted to chum me . We’re hoping that my little step daughter will be coming home on Monday at least for a day or so until they will take her back in for the next stages whatever they may be (should find that out Monday too). It will be so lovely for her to be able to see her sister.
Anyway I just wanted to update. Thanks again for your reply yesterday Latchbrook, it really meant a lot x
That's great that you weren't on your own today . It must have been very hard yesterday just waiting and worrying.
I'll keep everything crossed that your step daughter is able to go home on Monday and that the consultant has good news for you.
x
I know children can have a harder time with brain tumours, but just wanted to share my experience to give hope, hoping that your step daughter will do well. In 2013 I was diagnosed with a grade 2 Ependymoma on my brain stem 3.3cm. They did a debunking surgery as they couldn't get it all and I still have half the tumour there now. I had 6 weeks of radiotherapy and despite living with the tumour, only once 2 years ago has there been any growth, and that was minimal. My blog is here if you want a look www.myfaultybrain.co.uk and I hope your step daughter will do well.
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007