Hello

Hi and welcome to the Online Community. I so agree when you're given a diagnosis of any cancer it's like you're in a fog and on the outside looking in - nodding like you understand what you've just been told but taking nothing in. I've a different type of cancer but know exactly what you're talking about. I didn't have the faintest clue there was anything amiss with my body, described the tiniest symptom to my bestie and she nagged me to get it checked _ I'm glad she nagged me!

You've joined a group who will also know where you're coming from and will be able to offer support for this emotional and scary journey.

It’s always helpful to others if you write a little something (or a lot) about yourself and your journey to date. You can enter it into your profile (click on your username and select “Profile”) It’s helpful to other members with a similar diagnosis who can then hopefully answer your questions. It also means that you don't have to keep writing the same thing over and over. You can amend or update it at any time. 

To find more information covering diagnosis and treatments there are pages covering most types of cancers which can be found on our Online Information and Support Section. 

The Macmillan Support Services also offer lots of information, support, financial guidance or just someone to listen. It’s free to call 0808 808 0000. Most services are available 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. Have a look by Clicking here to see what is available and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two to three working days for replies from our expert team.

Sending you welcoming hugs B xx

You can read about my own 'rollercoaster' in my profile!

I don't pretend that it's always an easy thing at all, but my advice would be to try to focus on the positive wherever possible   Even being told you have a life limiting disease can be a plus if it means that you focus on all that makes you happy and you start to discard anything or anyone who doesn't.  It's definitely good that you've come through your round of chemo and surgery so well.  I've heard that Niraparib side effects can vary a great deal from person to person, so just make sure that you report on any new things and I'm sure you'll be advised how to adjust your life or the treatment to cope  Lots of women are alive today because of that drug and it's brilliant that you have a chance to be one of them.  

Like you I was (and am still)  frustrated that the team that care for me...the oncologist, my CNS and the chemo nurses too..... seem to "play their cards close to their chest".  I get especially frustrated that we, the patients aren't part of the MDT where we are discussed! But I do get that the drip feed of info can be protective too: I suspect not everyone can cope with full disclosure and in any case, they don't have a crystal ball and obviously don't have time to discuss every potential outcome with everyone.  I do try to go into every single consultation with a written list of my questions and they do all get answered.

Good luck Yvonne and stay in touch.  We'll all be wishing you the very best  

I turned 31 in July and in August was diagnosed with a 10 cm tumour which happened to be cancer futher test showed and biopsies showed that I also had peritoneal cancer, but they can not find where the cancer is coming from. I've yet to find out what stage and treatment I'm having as the tumour is inoperable as it's twisted around my bowel and womb. I'm abit lost about it all to tell you the truth. If you need a chat about anything I'll be here to listen. 

Wish you all the best in journey!

Hi.. peritoneal cancer can be primary so it started there in the peritoneal. Treatment can be done to reduce the tumour and remove womb and possibly bowel. Where are you located. Sending love, hope and prayers xx

Hi Rachel I’m so sorry for your diagnosis.  I’d never heard of the word peritoneal to be honest.  I’ve now had chemo and surgery since January and am on a maintenance treatment for ovarian cancer even though they said I also had peritoneal not sure what’s happening with that.  I hope you have everything explained to you soon with a plan of action, just try and stay positive and enjoy every day with your friends and family, to me that’s the most important thing.  If I can answer any questions  You may have I will certainly try.  Take care x

Where was the tumour: twisted around your womb and bowel sounds like it might be on an ovary?  There's a steep learning curve isn't there when you first get diagnosed.  I couldn't understand how they could biopsy a tumour on my chest wall to diagnose my cancer as peritoneal.  The cancer cells though all carry markers (like a kind of special school uniform) that betrays where they originate from.  I think there is an idea now that many of the gynae cancers originate in the fallopian tubes and then migrate to where settle to make their mischief.  I hope that you're a bit less lost now   I do think your team may not tell you all straight away in case it overwhelms you  But if you ask, they will explain I'm sure  

You have your youth on your side: your body will be stronger to withstand all the treatments ahead  and everyone here on the forum will be hear to listen to you too 

Christine x