Depression

[iamtommy]

Thank you Miranda, I have been in touch but I did send a question about a cancer council webpage that I visited before that had a list of recommended councellors. I saw one that suited me but I didnt record the details as i assumed I would be able to find the page again.

Im having troubld finding that page.

Do you know of a page on the cancer council website that shows such a list?

[iamtommy]

You don't have it easy Richard. It seems like everything is a battle and its you against the world - because of the condition you are in.

It is inspiring to hear you say that you won't give up despite all of these odds.

It doesn't sound easy going through what you are, and I hope you can find strength to continue.

I hope and I think this fatigue,  feeling of immense pressure or hopelessness or lack of motivation will subside for you soon.

I don't know all of the details of your life, so it might not.

But for me, the immense fatigue and lack of motivation was temporary. Its subsided and quite mild now, and 'manageable' although I'm seeking assistance on it.

I hope it is just because the treatment is still residual in your system and as your body heals so will some of those symptoms.

If the treatment or cancer didn't give you any disablements, I think you might be able to return mostly to your previous state. Not the same as before, Im not and I havent heard anyone has. But the severity of these side effects should hopefully reduce.

[Richard1]

Sorry about my bitching and moaning and sorry me attitude. It helps to get it of my chest, lifts that weight just a little bit. I know it all comes down to fatigue, I’m getting older and have to accept that. Cancer aside, I have to change, it’s scary but I will try.

Work is difficult, bills are difficult, dealing with problems I don’t want to is difficult. That’s life, I can’t look back when I’m old and grey, if I live that long, and have nothing but unhappy memories. I guess I feel horrible all the time is because my mind body soul are warning me I need to change, be better. If I feel this bad now and don’t change, what’s it going to be like in 5 years time. Never give up, never surrender, I am a survivor.

[Miranda_ccnsw]

Hi @iamtommy, I'm sorry I am unsure where your question may have been sent. Cancer Council itself doesn't have a webpage with a list of counsellors, perhaps it could have been a different organisation's webpage? When someone calls the Cancer Council 13 11 20 team, and counselling is a fit for them, they are matched directly with a registered counsellor who is experienced in helping people affected by cancer. You may wish to contact the 13 11 20 team if you haven't already called them, you reside in Australia and feel that service might be a great support for you. All the best with your search and finding support, Miranda

[iamtommy]

Hey @Richard1, how are things? It was never an issue that you were venting about your situation, it wasn't bad hearing about it at all, besides feeling your pain.

I know it helps me greatly to be able to vent. And it's difficult to vent to people who hasn't gone through this as I feel like I come across pitiable.

I hope the lack of messages of late means that things have been on the up? Even gradually?

[Richard1]

Things are kinda back to normal. I’m not as strong mentally or physically as I used to be, I’ve learnt to accept it and just carry on.

Thank you for keeping in touch, it’s alway nice to get a message.

It’s amazing how much pain and trauma the mind and body can go through and yet I somehow keep moving forward. Still working, playing with the kids, walking the dog, paying the bills ect. Life goes on and I refuse to be left behind.

How are you going with everything?

[iamtommy]

That is amazing to hear Richard! Well done on having the will power to stay strong when all odds were against you. Hopefully the worst is in the past.

I have been well, I did some councelling sessions and it helped me adjust my perspective and expectations. I also have new ways to work around my short term memory worries.

All something I'm putting into practice to see how it goes.

Well, if I dont hear from you, I will assume thats a good thing! 

All the best with your family and this very special second chance!