How do you cope

On 17th Jan this year I had a total thyroid removal and the right lymph node removed as well.

I have just been informed by my GP that the cancer has spread to the right shoulder and discussions are taking place on an appropriate treatment plan before talking to me.

I am to say the least terrified . My wife is doing a sterling job at this moment and just when you start feeling positive they hit you with this.

How are you supposed to even get some sleep now have been hit with that?

To all you out there fighting this , I wish you all the very best. 

  • Hello Marty666

    I'm sorry to hear about the news that you've received following your surgery last month. It must have come as a shock to you both to receive this information. Understandably this is a difficult time. 

    I'm glad to hear that your wife is being so supportive while you're waiting for more information. We know that for many people this period of uncertainty can be particularly difficult and it's natural that we think of worst-case scenarios. Hopefully, you won't have to wait too long to hear from the specialists about the next steps in your treatment. 

    It may be helpful for you to keep this information about thyroid cancer on our website handy so that you can refer to things as you get more information from the specialists. But in the meantime, I wonder if you might find it useful to talk with one of our team of nurses. I'm sure they will be happy to offer any advice, information, and support that they can to you and your wife as well as help you think about any questions that you might want to ask at your next appointment. If you'd like to talk with them they're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I hope you have some news soon Marty666. Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Hi Marty, 

    For me it was processing the shock, realising that I had to take every moment little by little, expect the waves of emotions they are painful but will pass. Reaching out for help is a great step, I found that a bit difficult but was glad once I did. It's a good idea to talk to a stranger sometimes just about anything, there are lots of organisations you can reach out to. The worry is overwhelming, talking can get you through the day. Find your thing, I craft and paint, badly, and watch a detective box set so it doesn't define me. I wish you the very best with your treatment plan.