Just diagnosed with stage 3 brain tumour at 34

I had a seizure over a month ago and decided to go to A&E. I had a few scans they found a tumour and then had a have a craniotomy surgery.

I was  just told by a nurse yesterday that it’s stage 3 cancer and will need radiotherapy and chemotherapy. I’m now waiting for the oncologist to contact me 

Im scared and I’m worried about my job as the treatment will be around 10 months. I’m also single and want to have kids one day and I’m worried that may not happen for me now. 

Can anyone give me some advice to cope with this? 

Thank you 

  • Hello Caroli and welcome to Cancer Chat,

    I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but I hope that posting has helped in some way. 

    It's understandable that you would feel worried about the future, so it's important that you communicate this to your nurse or oncologist, as they will be the best people to advise you on the possibility of having kids. If you're looking to understand what treatment will look like, you can refer to our website anytime. There is information on treatment for brain tumours, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Making your employers aware is important too, if you haven't already, and there is a coping practically section where you can find out about any financial support that might be available to you. Our guidance on coping with cancer also focuses on ways of coping physically and emotionally. 

    It can also help to talk through how you're feeing with those close you. As they say, a problem shared is a problem halved. If you'd ever like some medical advice outside your team, you are welcome to contact our free and confidential nurse helpline. You can call on 0808 800 4040 and lines open from 9 to 5 Monday to Friday. They are very friendly and will be happy to discuss anything you may be worried about.

    I hope this is useful and that you hear from your oncologist soon. Keep us updated! 

    Moderator Anastasia