Hello,
I’m new here and newly diagnosed.
I’m currently living in Japan for work and was meant to leave next week and travel for 3 months before returning to London where I’m from.
So this diagnosis has seriously messed up my plans.
I’m staying in Japan for surgery and will find out next week what kind of surgery that will be and then what follow up treatment will be needed (radio/chemo)
I can’t stay in Japan for all of my treatment as I’d already resigned from my job and given notice on my house.
So my question is, has anyone started treatment abroad and then come back to finish it?
I assume I’ll need to re-register at my old doctors and be referred to a hospital. I’m just worried about how long that process will take and who I should be referred to at the hospital?
Any advice would be greatly received.
Hi michyb744fe8
It’s Megan here from Macmillan’s Online Community team. I’m sorry to hear what has brought you to join the site. I saw your post and wanted to share some information with you while you wait for others with a similar experience to reply.
There is some information on the Macmillan website about accessing healthcare when you return to the UK. You may also find it helpful to chat to the Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line with any clinical questions you have.
Whilst the Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line can’t access personal medical records, they’ll be able to answer clinical questions about a cancer. You can speak to the Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line every day from 8am to 8pm.
To get in touch, you can call 0808 808 00 00 or our overseas number +44 207 091 2230 from 8am to 8pm (GMT). There is also the option to send an email or start a live webchat during the opening hours.
When you are logged into the Community, you can post questions in our Ask an Expert section of the Community. Our Nurses (Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays), and Support Advisers (7 days a week), will aim to respond as soon as they can. Usually within 2-3 working days.
Whilst you are living in Japan, there is the National Cancer Centre that has information and resources you can access. There is also the Cancer Support Community that has a helpline if you need some local support.
I don't know where you are based in Japan, but if you are close to Tokyo, there is a Maggie’s centre based there. They offer emotional and practical support, and there are also Maggie’s centres in the UK to support you when you are here.
I hope I’ve been able to reassure you that there’s lots of support available and we are here to help. If you need any help using the Community or finding additional support, please don’t hesitate to email community@macmillan.org.uk.
Best wishes,
Megan
Macmillan's Online Community team
