Help

Hello there. This morning my boyfriend Aldo, who lives in the Netherlands, was diagnosed with lower bowel cancer which has spread to his liver. Apparently surgery isn't an option, only a combination of weekly chemo and tablets. We had set the date to get married and then this happens. Cancer seems everywhere around me at the moment. My 52 yr old brother has bladder cancer, my mam has skin cancer as well as Parkinson's, an aortic aneurysm as well as awaiting a full knee replacement and now my beloved Aldo is ill. He is only 55. We are both in shock and because of Covid restrictions I can't hop on a plane which is very distressing. I'm surprised I'm holding it together to be honest. He's frightened that his life will never be the same again. Does anyone have any advice or experience of this? Thank you. Julie xx

  •  Hello, 

     So sorry about the news you got. Your comment about having a feeling there's cancer everywhere around you, really hits home, even though I don't have as many loved ones affected by it. But I am still completely terrified, so I will try to say I kind of know how you feel. 

     I want you to know that even though an operation is not a possibility, you shouldn't lose hope. So much depends on how well the cancer reacts to the treatment. So, just be positive, it is not the end yet. 

     I would say that all you can do right now is to make sure he's with someone who's there to support him, since you can't be there. He also needs to know, you will be there for him. Listen to him, call him, Skype him... Tell him not to give up, because it is possible for him to go in remission for some time after the treatment. 

     And the last thing: if you're overwhelmed with everything that's been going on lately and if feel like you need support, go find someone competent to help you - sometimes just a conversation can make things a little bit better. 

     I hope everything works out well, you and your loved ones will be on my mind. 

     

  • Hi, thank you so much for your kind words ️

    The last 24 hours have been difficult but I'm determined to be strong and positive for us both. He slept well last night but he puts that down to mental exhaustion from yesterday. Plus, it was only a month ago when he said he had pains in his lower abdomen - no other symptoms whatsoever so to say it's been a shock is an understatement!

    I'm so pleased that he is going ahead with his band rehearsal tonight as it will do him good. He will probably play the hell out of the drums ️

    Julie x

     

     

  • PS I'm sorry things are difficult for you too xx

  •  Yess, I am glad you're staying optimistic and I am sure that you two are to create many more amazing memories together. :grin: 

     Feel free to share when you know more and how well the treatment goes!