Grade 3 astrocytoma

  • 3 replies
  • 53 subscribers
  • 64 views

Hi I was recently diagnosed with a grade 3 astrocytoma and have also had a cranotomy to remove the tumor which I am currently undergoing radio therapy, I am currently not working and am after some help in order to keep my self focused I have currently applied to therapies on the brain tumor and MacMillan I just feel a bit lost in my life at the moment as my normal day to day its had to get a focus on what to do 

Thank you for reading 

  • Hi Tango Boy, Alex here - you’re among friends, and we’re here to help or just chat

    I also have an astrocytoma (stage 4), and after a craniotomy, chemo and radiotherapy in 2022, I’m stable for now, and happy living day to day. How are you doing with the chemo? Hope you can hang in there. Let us know if you have any questions about it (I’m not medically trained, so I only have lived experience)

    ‘A bit lost’ sounds about right - I feel for you x. Not working sounds good, if you can. But it’s hard to find a balance between resting and doing things you enjoy. You’ll work it out but don’t push yourself. Don’t see friends if you don’t have the energy - they can wait, just find what works for you and honestly, put yourself first. I did, and its been really helpful

    MacMillan is a good idea - whether you need medical questions, advice, or just someone who understands, this place has been great. I hope you find what you need,

    sending a hug and my best wishes, Alex xxx

  • Hi Alex thank you very much for your reply it really means a lot to hear from other people that have sadly been through this experience I'm glad your stable with the grade 4 and hope it stays that way for you 

    I have not started chemo yet I have nearly finished my 6 and a half weeks of chemo which on its takes it out of you then I'll be getting a MRI to check how the treatment has gone

    Thank you Alex hope you enjoy your evening 

    Regards

    Kalliff

  • HI Tango boy

    a warm welcome to the online community. Sorry to hear about all that you're going through.

    Feeling a bit lost is perfectly normal. You've gone through a lot in a short space of time and it takes time to process it all. Plus the craniotomy is major surgery and that too takes time to recover from. I supported my late husband through the 3 years of his Glioblastoma journey and he too had a craniotomy followed by radiotherapy. Fatigue was the main side effect of the radiotherapy for him and it kicked in about week 4 of a 6 week treatment regime. The fatigue lasted for about a month after the treatment finished. I'm not trying to scare you by saying all of this. I'm trying to highlight that its ok not to be back to your A game here.

    As Leeluu says, you'll work it out and please don't push yourself too hard here. Listen to your body.

    This is a safe and supportive space so please reach out here anytime. There's always someone about to listen as you've already seen, someone to hold your hand and to offer a virtual hug when its needed. You're not alone. We've got you.

    It’s always good to talk so please remember that you can also call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, emotional support, benefit and financial guidance or just a listening ear.

    For now I'm sending you a huge virtual hug and lots of positive energy

    love n hugs

    Wee Me xx

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm