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I Can't Get Past The Diagnosis

brianb
Posts: 3
Joined: Apr 2002
Apr 28, 2002 - 8:48 am

I have had cancr since I was 18 (I am now 37) and about every five years I have a recurrance in the lymph nodes. (The cancer started in my thyroid and spread to the right cervical lymph nodes.)

Over half my life I have been a cancer patient and it defines my life. I have put my entire life on hold for fear of the cancer coming back, or because the cancer is back, or because I am too depressed about the future to get past the diagnosis.

How do you do it? What is your secret? And can anyone recommend a therapist or therapy style to help me with this problem? I need to get on with my life.
rebecca01
Posts: 5
 Joined: Apr 2002
Apr 28, 2002 - 11:36 am
RE: I Can

Brian, I was diagnosed with breast cancer 2 years ago, I was 35,it has cunsumed my life also and my marriage is at stake. I have 2 kids, one 10 yrs old and 1 4 yrs old. I have finally started in a cancer support group and it has made such a difference to me. You find that there are people JUST like you and feel the same and that you are NOT alone. This group has helped me much more than the 2 yrs of counseling (1 on 1). Cancer is the most horrid thing that has happened to me, and I have nothing positive to think about it. But being in this support group is helping me get a grip on what has happend to me. I am not sure what are you are from, but check out some cancer support groups..SOON. I wish that I had done it sooner!! Kepp me informed of what you have found. My email address is ramseyb@mindspring.com.
Good luck and God bless,
Becky

terato's picture
terato
Posts: 384
 Joined: Apr 2002
Apr 29, 2002 - 6:56 pm
RE: I Can

I was diagnosed with testicular cancer when I was 28. It had metastisized to the lymph nodes on the inside of my spine three months following my initial surgery. I felt "psychologically paralyzed" by cancer. It helped end my ten-year marriage and kept me stuck in a career I despised.

After my "lay-off" in May, 2000, I finally decided on a career change. I substitute teach now. At the ripe old age of 50, I am planning to return to college in the Fall to get my teaching certificate, something I should