Terrified of recurrence - ovarian cancer

Hello. I was recently diagnosed with stage 1 ovarian cancer & have had surgery.  

I know I am very lucky to get diagnosed at such an early stage but I am terrified of recurrence. I am thinking  about it all the time. 

I have young children with adds to my worries. It is taking away my enjoyment. 

I only got my final diagnosis/stage 3 weeks ago, will this get easier?

I just want to find joy in my life again without a feeling of impending doom and uncertainty. 

  • Hello Worrywort2000

    I'm sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis and all that you've been through. it's good to know that you've already had your surgery and I hope that you're recovering well from this. 

    Have you now finished active treatment? Have the specialists given you a plan regarding monitoring or the next steps in moving forward? 

    We know that for many people once the initial shock of diagnosis and the rollercoaster of active treatment has ended, things can become difficult. As all that you've been through and the potential impact that this diagnosis may have on your future health begins to sink in, it's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by thoughts and feelings. 

    If you were given details for a clinical nurse specialist then I'd really encourage you to get in touch with them and talk through some of your concerns. I'm sure they will be able to give you some reassurance. You may also want to talk to your GP surgery to see what services may be available in your local area. Often charities such as Maggies are able to offer talking therapies that can really help to reassure us that what we are experiencing is normal and how we can move forward after treatment. 

    Alternatively, if you'd like to chat things through with one of our nurses you are most welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information, and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    In the meantime be kind to yourself. It is still early days in the wider scheme of things. I hope that you're able to get out and enjoy this spring sunshine with your children over the weekend. Just take each day as it comes and try not to look too far ahead to the future as this will leave you more anxious. 

    Do keep in touch and let us know how you're doing. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator