I'm really sorry you find yourself in this situation and you don't need to be worrying about money. I'd recommend you speak to Macmillan as they can help with any benefits you may be entitled to. If you work in education you should have a good sick pay entitlement? Also I'm not sure of your age but if youre 55 or older, you could access your pension. I think in some circumstances like I'll health, you may be able to get it earlier. Without knowing more about your situation, it's difficult to know but do speak to Macmillan as a starting point.

Best wishes

Jane

Hello and thank you for your post,

I am sorry to hear about your diagnosis and I can appreciate you asking about whether you should now think about giving up work.

Thinking about reducing your hours or retiring early is something that you will need to find out about and how it will affect you, both practically and emotionally. You might find it helpful to look at the information about work and cancer  from Macmillan.  They also have information about accessing pensions. We also have information about money and pensions on our website.

The practical side of reducing work or retiring early will hopefully be something you can work out.  However, stopping something that is part of your everyday life may not be so easy. Although, it is fair to say that getting a balance between work and your home life is important. There may come a time when you feel work is getting more difficult because of symptoms you may have and/or the emotional impact of knowing that you may have less time. 

I think this a pretty big thing to talk about, so you may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Take care,

Caroline

I am not able to talk about my worries at the moment wothout getting upset even the th ought of speaking to someone makes me tearful.

my prognosis is 5+ but plus what…could this be years or just a few weeks. 

I am constantly thinking of the what ifs and not knowing is taking over my thoughts. 

Hello Meaney,

I am sorry you do not feel you can talk at this stage, but you know where we are when you can.

It might help to talk with your cancer specialist team, such as your cancer nurse specialist, about what your prognosis is. I am very sorry but because we are not involved in your care we can't know what it is.

It is difficult to know what the future holds for anyone, but maybe some talking therapies when you feel ready will help your mental health. Macmillan offers free BUPA counselling to those with a cancer diagnosis, or your hospital team may also have this support available. Good mental health when you have a cancer diagnosis can give you some strength in a time of uncertainty and lack of control. But, there may also be some tools, like coping practically, getting your personal affairs sorted, and making some plans, that may help you a little too.

I hope you have some support Meaney at this time, and if you do feel free to continue posting on the forum for support

Take care, and you know where we are.

Sarah.