Oh it was not easy and your feelings and being overwhelmed is completely normal and understandable. You do what you can in your own time. Do not compare, do not put any extra pressure on yourself.  You should most certainly though reach out to anyone that can help you if it's something you want to do.    First things first is to focus on regaining your energy levels and try and stablise and then worry about anything else.    Cry as much as you want, let it all out. you are only human. Facing this is difficult, if you have anyone you can lean on now is the time, if you don't their are many professional services that can help. Even you being on this online forum is a great start. I am always here if you respond i will too. If you don't it's ok too.    The human body can do amazing things if you allow it to, be as strong as possible and push just a little more. We are all here to help each other.  ... View more

Hi Sielien,   I know exactly how you feel. I have stage IV lung cancer with NET and also have a 6yr, 4yr and 7 month old kids. I know what you are thinking and it’s not fair. I am here if you want to privately chat and share any experiences, feelings or if you want to just vent. I am trying to live life as best I can staying “positive” but being trapped at home whilst your a ticking time bomb doesn’t help.  I was diagnosed only earlier this year and decided to create birthday cards for every year up until 18, I did videos and recorded their wedding speeches as well as some wedding anniversary and Valentine’s Day videos for my wife (yes I’m a sucker for Valentine’s Day). It’s up to you how much you do but it made me feel better. It can be emotional but it’s nice for them to have something to watch IF things don’t go your way. You just need a close friend to help with video and card distribution.  please reach out if I can help at all.  ... View more

Thanks Kate.    Biopsy went well apparently, textbook was at home today glad it was over as it's very uncomfortable. Just received a call 10 mins ago advising that the samples were not stored correctly and now I have to do it all over again next week! Bit disappointing but it needs to be done for me to move forward so I will have to do it again.  ... View more

Hi Jessica,   an amazing person you are for thinking outside the box and seeking information. I have a colleague who is in the same boat as well as I am currently diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment. A few comments that can help your friend:   Try not to treat them like a lost cause dont give them puppy dog eyes and constantly ask how they are, but still be compassionate. They still want to be treated as normally as possible.   she will be scared and unsure what the future holds so be aware of that.   you can provide practical gifts if you wish that will help. Things like soft beanies for when and if she loses her hair, lip balm, soft and gentle shampoos (moo brand is good), advise that their is a wig service and feel good service available as well as cancer council offers free holiday getaways (maybe you can go with her between treatments), lots of salty snacks, a book called f you cancer is a good read, encourage her to gargle with salt water every night to avoid mouth ulcers (this is all based on that she will have some sort of immunotherapy, chemo or radiation therapy), I engaged with a naturopath to help me bounce back quicker between treatments but it’s not for everyone.  All you can do is be there for when she asks but try not to push yourself on them. Some people like space.  regardless you have done the right thing. Good luck and here if you have any questions.    ... View more