Dealing with FINDING OUT YOU HAVE CANCER!

From oldgit

> Hi Matt
>
> Recently diagnosed with early stage Prostate Cancer, and have just read your 10 tips. On the first reading they have put everything into perspective, and hopefully will help me discuss the "C" word.
>
> Whilst awaiting the start of treatment due in January, I visited our local Maggies Centre, (Maggies gives advice and assistance for Cancer sufferers), and in speaking to strangers has really helped and I came away feeling a heavy load has been lifted from my shoulders, it may only be a temporary feeling, but it has helped me to realise that I am not alone.
>
> After telling my wife of my visit, she appears to be keen to visit Maggies as well.
>
> Your tip to speak openly to people was the best advice and I hope that I can continue with the positive feeling.
>
> As a close friend says, "Keep your pecker up"
>
> Hope this finds you well and in good spirit.
>
> Cheers
>
> Sandy

To: oldgit
Subject: Re: Your 10 tips
Date: Mon, 24/11/2008 - 15:27

Sandy,

I am so pleased that my top ten tips have been useful to you - a number of people have thanked me in the past but your reply really top's the lot - certainly being open and up front has stood me in good steed during the last couple of years - and people I know personally who have since contracted various types of cancer have always received the same message from me and it has been amazing to see their different approach once they "front" the subject.

Sounds like your local group is also spot on, and yes it is very important that it is not only you that comes to terms and can talk about the fact that you have Cancer but that your wife, immmediate family and friends can also feel free and talk to others about it.

Fighting Cancer is extremely hard for anyone but the ability to fight it together and not to feel inhibited in what you say or do does really allow you to give it that extra punch!

My very best regards to you and your family.

Matt

P.S.

I will be placing your pm and my reply on the forum site as I believe it could also help others!

P.P.S.

Matts Top Ten Tips can be accessed via my profile - click more at bottom right corner and scroll down to title and click.