Hi there, I’m 22 & recently I had a MRI scan for a completely unrelated issue through NHS. They found swollen lymph nodes in my neck instead and sent me a letter explaining that. Given that I had to have a biopsy & scan and was ultimately diagnosed with thyroid cancer. This has come as a shock in many different ways. I’m autistic and my processing is very complicated, I've found balancing this all very hard.
which everyone after a diagnosis must feel. It’s just the small things for me that are making me feel overwhelmed. Because of my autism hospitals are a big fear due to sensory issues and of course a hospital is busy and loud. Which is a struggle and of course change and the uncertainty. The uncertainty is a big part as this is something I never expected or thought I would handle. I feel strong in myself that I can get through this however it’s the small parts that play on my mind. My doctor said I’ll be in hospital for 4 days for removing my thyroid, and neck dissection on the side and middle I believe. The thought of staying in hospital for a few hours let alone days has sent me down a rabbit hole of anxiety.
id really appreciate some advice on the overwhelming side of it, with the uncertainty and if anyone else is neurodivergent and has been diagnosed I would highly appreciate suggestions on how to cope with the situation. As of now I’ve been told I will have some reasonable adjustments because of my autism which I’m thankful for. However I’m still very much panicking. That was a lot of writing and I hope I haven’t rambled. But thank you if you take the time to read & respond.
