Terrified
I just found out that I have ovarian cancer and I am terrified. I have to wait for two more tests (cat scan and ultrasound) and a referral to a gynelogic oncologist. My diagnosis was already delayed by 4 months because of covid, and I'm terrified that these appointments will be delayed also. Any help or advice to talk-down this terror would be appreciated, and/or advice on advocating to get these appointments in a timely manner
0
Comments
I remember the call I got, back in 2017, and going from disbelief to shock to utter terror all in the first day. What I can say is that I started researching this disease (OCC has an enormous library of information in it's website to draw upon), and reaching out to survivors on sites like this one. This section in OCC is especially valuable if you have yet to explore it https://ovariancanada.org/Living-with-Ovarian-Cancer/Newly-Diagnosed and I highly recommend ordering By Your Side to help guide you through the beginning of your journey. For me, the more I learned the more hope and confidence I gained and the more I felt in some control again.
And yes, don't fear advocating to get what you feel you want...sometimes a gentle nudge...sometimes a not so gentle nudge...will get things moving forward faster. And sometimes you just have to wait. Regardless, don't despair. Never before has there been so much progress in treatment. Women are beating the odds every day and living longer and fuller lives because so much more is now known about our disease and how to treat it at an individual level. I can tell you that I belong to a support group in my area where more than 50% of our members are survivors of over 20 years.
I don't know where you are...close to a cancer center? Urban, suburban, rural ? I suggest reaching out to Marilyn Sapsford ( @MarilynOCC ) the Director of Programs at OCC. She may be able to provide you with more resources available in your specific area.
I hope this helps somewhat. Wishing I could be there to give you that hug you likely need right now. But for the time being, you have many many of us here to give you those hugs virtually. Good luck and please continue to reach out and let us know how we can help and how you're doing.
I just want to affirm your request for a referral to gynecologic oncologist in London. We definitely recommend that you see this kind of specialist if ovarian cancer is a suspected diagnosis. Studies have shown there are better surgical outcomes if a gynecologic oncologist performs the surgery than another kind of surgeon like an ob/gyn.
If you had the presence of mind to ask for this referral in the midst of your shock and fear - you will be able to stick handle whatever may come your way
I have just finished my treatment regime which included 7 rounds of chemo and debulking surgery which was done in April. There sure is lots to instigate fear, that is a natural reaction but here you will find so many people who can share their stories of treatment and survival, their good experiences will calm you fears.
If the prospect of chemotherapy is one of your fears, I can tell you that I came through with very little side effects. It is not that bad, and there are now many medications available that will prevent the nausea often associated with chemo. My best advice to you at this point is to adopt the healthiest possible lifestyle to make sure you are strong and healthy as you go into chemo. For me that was a focus on nutrition, rest and exercise.
Good luck and bring you questions and concerns here. At this point, you do not know your diagnosis for the type and stage of cancer you have, the news may not be as bad as you fear, try not to "future worry".
Hopefully things will go smoothly for you, good luck!