Hi Ashes    are you still there?  ... View more

Hi LG,   Yes, I felt the embarasment too.  I didn't want everyone to know as if it was some judgement on me.  Somehow my fault.  Something I did or didn't do.  You just have to come to terms with the fact that you've been diagnosed and it is a shock to the entire system.  I just have to remember that bad things happen to good people.  I watched a film called the C word and it heped me to get things into perspective.     I have adenoid cystic carcinoma of submandibular gland and it starts when two genes just decide to switch on.  It's not genetic or inherited.  Still doesn't make it feel any better.  I was diagnosed in May 2019.  Very early days yet.  Starting Radiotherapy later this week following surgery on 10th July.  I think the diagnosis also makes you go from fiercely independant to suddenly dependant on others and that's a difficult adjustment.  I had retired earlier this year so it's completely changed my plans and trajectory.     Unfortunatly, it's a shock and luckily you're getting counselling to help you deal with the shock.  It's also quite traumatic because you're dealing with something you hoped would never happen to you.  I think it take time to comprehend all the new information and changes.  Just take it slow, day by day if you can.  I hope things improve for you greatly and that the love and support around you, help you get through this in the best way that you can. ... View more

Hi Lorna,   i share your thoughths about not joining a cancer group and here I am joining just to answer you. You have inspired me to join and I hope this shows how you can continue to inspire people today and everyday regardless of your medical diagnosis.    My mother passed from Breast cancer just 3 years ago and I was diagnosed earlier this year. It broke my heart mainly because I finally see this journey with my own eyes and I don’t have her around to help me through it. I wish I could tell my mom that I never understood her pain and fear but now I do.   I have a young daughter, my family and friends are overseas and I too feel very alone.  Keeping myself busy has been helpful I’ve been writing, painting, and finding creative ways to stay hopeful.  I kept my diagnosis a secret from social media but told my closest friends and relatives. They understand how difficult the diagnosis was for me but they cheer me up and check up on me all the time and it feels good to feel love and compassion from others in a private way.   I feel for you. Enjoy every day even if it means staying in your pjs. That’s what I’m planning on doing all day today.    Big hug xo   ... View more