Hello

Hi SueU and a very warm welcome to the online community which I hope you'll find is both an informative and supportive place to be.

I'm sorry to read that you've just been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and, although I don't have this type of cancer, I know what a shock it can be to be told you have cancer.

I noticed that your post hadn't had any replies yet so responding to you will 'bump' it back to the top of the page where it'll be easier for the group members to spot.

While you're waiting for replies, it would be great if you could put something about your diagnosis into your profile as it really helps others when replying to you and also when looking for someone on a similar pathway. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.

Hello Sue - so sorry to hear about your diagnosis.   What a really scary word the cancer word is!   I recall the first time I heard this after my scan - for me, it was quite traumatising.  My main coping strategy was to try as best I could - to be in the present.   I used to really give myself a talking to when I found that my brain went into catastrophising mode!   I would focus on breathing strategies - really helpful.  I also used distraction techniques - anything at all that would help calm my mind (TV programmes were particularly helpful).  I would also get up and go for a short walk - the moment I found myself going into 'worst case scenario' mode,.   Once I had got to the stage of my operation - I had calmed down a bit (not much mind!),   But once you find out what is going to happen - I think it really does feel like ok, there is something that can be done to help me.  I know how overwhelming it can all feel - so I won't bombard you with information about me - but if you want to ask anything in particular - just reply on this thread.   Warm hugs are sent your way x