Hi Duckie, I'm glad you found this site. It's a great place to come to vent/chat/ask/encourage/get support. My husband was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2011, and I found the old cliche to be true: 'one day at a time' (or even hour, if a whole day sounds too daunting). When dealing with difficult days, just take it little by little, and do what you can with what you have. Also remember that emotionally there are no rules when it comes to dealing with stuff like this. sending big hugs, Emily ... View more

It's probably best to discuss these ideas with your Oncologist, as chemicals can interact and may end up counteracting each other. I have to come clean at this stage and say I used to be a Nurse, so I align myself with Western medicine, and don't know much about alternative thereapies. Just make sure that the people you take treatment advice from are well respected in their fields, with demonstrated good results. Good luck! ... View more

Hi Di, Chris did have his treatment at RMH. Which hospital has your husband been linked with? Chris didn't follow any particular type of diet, except that he had to maintain a 'pregnant woman' diet while he was having chemo (no mouldy cheese, fermented meat or raw meat), because his immune system was suppressed. Apart from that he ate what he felt like. I haven't heard of any diet or food that can be used to cancer- what are you referring to? I think Chris will enjoy his ride, except that he's leaving the house at 4.30am(!!!!) I think I'll turn over and have a smug giggle before I go back to sleep. Have a great weekend! love Emily ... View more

Hi Di, my story is very like yours, except my husband's diagnosis took 6 months. He was 39 when he was diagnosed with stage IV Follicular Non Hodgkin's lymphoma. The head and neck surgeon at the Royal Melbourne Hospital referred him to Professor Andrew Roberts, a Haematologist, and we've been really happy with him. That was in April 2011. Chris was offered the opportunity to be part of a medical trial, which involved RCHOP or another drug, Bendamustine. He took part, was given Bendamustine, and the results have been great. He's riding his bike around Port Phillip Bay with a group or cycling friends tomorrow! Ironically, a friend of ours was diagnosed with Follicular lymphoma last year, stage 2 I think, and was put on watch and wait. She started RCHOP on Tuesday, after a slow advance in her lymphoma. It's the preferred treatment for this disease, and has produced some good results. I wish you and your husband luck with everything. love Emily ... View more

Hi Patti, there is no specific counselling service for carers/family members of someone who has cancer. I recommend counselling, though, and I understand what it's like- there's no-one close enough to confide in who isn't just trying to cope with it themselves. Counselling is good for venting and learning how to cope without feeling like you're burdening anyone. love and hugs, Emily ... View more

Hi Matsy, your post really spoke to me- my husband comes up for the milestone 5 years in remission next year. I spent the first year of his remission experiencing what you describe, and I was even anxious and miserable about it all when he was well. I eventually got some counselling, as it began to effect my daily life. It really helped me move past the anxiety and downward mental spiral. I still stress out or sink into misery occasionally, but now I can 'switch off' unrealistic negative thoughts much more quickly and easily. Counselling may help you with this, too. Learning how to process what you've been through effectively is really helpful (not to mention a big relief!), and that's what a counsellor does. Also know that we are here for and with you. sending big hugs, Emily ... View more

Hi Jeni, I found that, too. I've spent more time on this website since my husband's remission than during his chemo. It's such a great resource, and I guess once the acute phase is over there is more time to think about stuff, and that's when the questions pop up. Ask away! love Emily ... View more

Woo Hoo! Doing the happy dance with you KJ! I bet the stars in the top end are going to look fanstatic. love Emily. ... View more

My husband is really well, Janet. He's currently training for Around the Bay in Day, and the Ride to Conquer Cancer, both in October. He rediscovered his love of cycling last year, and can't be stopped! He's been in remission for 4 years so far, and is currently healthier than he has been for the last 15 years. I'm really sorry you're feeling so sad. I don't really have any short term tips for dealing with depression- I've had more experience with anxiety. Be gentle with yourself though- you've been through a huge thing. Emily x ... View more

Hi Janet, I went through something similar after my husband went into remission from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. I just couldn't get past what had happened. I saw a psychologist too, and it was really helpful. (I was incidently diagnosed with a lifelong anxiety disorder as well.) One of the strategies I learned, which helped me the most, was to practice mindfulness. This means concentrating on what is happening right now- what can you see, hear, smell, taste and touch? This is especially good during times of acute anxiety, as anxiety is usually based in some mythical(terrible) future. Another good trick I found (by accident!) when my emotions are spiralling out of control, is to write with my non-dominant hand- it's basically an easy way to become mindful, because you really have to concentrate! Write whatever you like- your name, the alphabet, a shopping list, copy out a paragraph from a book-anything will get your mind off your thoughts, and onto the movements of your hand on the page. I hope this helps a bit. Please let me know how you go. love and hugs, Emily ... View more