For me, as well, I have found that I am not alone in all of this. Before I found this site, I often felt that I was going crazy and felt very cut off after my treatment finished. When I was on treatment I felt that there was at least something happening and while I couldn't wait for it to end, I then felt very helpless and isolated. I found this site and all of the peple who share this journey in one capacity or another. Too many (like Jill) have brought tears but many others have brought joy and hope when we hear of long term survivors or tumours shrinking. Perhaps the tears and the hoope are all part of this experience and I am beginning to understand what is important now. Cats, I never thought that i would have cyber friends for whom I seem to care so much either. What a strange and unique journey this is for all of us. Take care all, S ... View more

As the others have said, I guess it depends who is asking. You do need someone who you can allow the tsunami out with, however. I also agree with Saior in that with namy of my good friends who have stuck by me, it is the hugs and a certain gentleness that always seems to help. I think that there needs to some level of honesty but as Sailor put it, keep it neutral. Also remember to take help whenever if it is offered. May it be emotional or physical. Your Dad is lucky to have a doughter so full of care - remeber to care for yourself as well. S ... View more

My thoughts are with you Jill. You must be emotionally and physically exhausted but I am glad that you have neighbours and friends to call upon to help when in crisis. I'm so sorry but I don't know what else to say but please remember that there is always someone here for you to outpour your thoughts to. Proof reading is never required. I hope that there are people to support you as well as you are supporting your husband. Take care, S ... View more

Hi Jods77, I agree with HArker. Your perceptions are clear and honest. He is lucky to have someone with him who can see the situation with such integrity. Take care of yourself and your Mum as well as your Dad. Samex ... View more

Great to hear such good news. I too put on huge amounts of weight while on chemo - it must be the bowel stuff and the steroids. It is slowly coming off and the anti-d meds seem to be allowing me to eat less rather than more because I was stress eater. Take lots of time for yourselves and take every little step slowly. 2 years down the track I am much stronger and maybe finally starting to feel less afraid, so let Rob know that the strength does return, albeit slowly. Enjoy your splurging and remember to take some time, even just a few moments, just to be. So good to hear from you, Samex ... View more

Sailor, For all of us, thnaks for that advice. Dr Google can so often be terrifying and contradictory. Samex ... View more

Hi Chris, In no way do I pretend to be a medical expert but if you are bleeding, perhaps you should present to the hospital where you had your proceedure? Can you claim some of the fee on Medicare? Perhpas ring the cancer helpline for some advice. PLEASE take care. Samex ... View more

MAy there be many more for all of us!!! SAmex ... View more

Hi Dizzydee, Words always seem so futile at times like these.I can't imagine your pain as I still have my wonderful Dad at the age of 84. He has survived a a valve replacement in his heart, a tumour removed from his bowel and radiation treatment for prostate cancer. He is amazing. Be kind to yourself and your family and while we may not truly know your pain, we will always be here to listen and care. Samex ... View more

Brilliant - as the pommies would say! Have an awesome time. I know when I jumped on a plane on impulse and went to New York with my dear, dear friend last October, I remember thinking one day, that I had gone 2 whole days and not thought about cancer. As her husband had died from cancer 3 years earlier, it was pretty momentous for both of us. A beautiful time of the year to be in Greece. Enjoy!!! Samex ... View more