CommunitiesB-Cell LymphomaHow do I talk about my cancer diagnosis without feeling like I'm bringing everyone down?

How do I talk about my cancer diagnosis without feeling like I'm bringing everyo...

GE

Community Member

a month ago

I was diagnosed in May of 2024 with small b-cell cll/sll lymphoma and leukemia. They removed a lymph node on the front of my left hip. I also had a bone biopsy. One of the most painful things I have felt in my life so far. I am being monitored with CT scans and blood work. So far nothing has changed. I still have a 6cm mass in my abdomen that they did not take out at the time due to it not presenting any issues. I have had increasing discomfort and pain from time to time. I have told my doctor. I am getting ready to do testing again. Wish me luck! I know the definition of courage is being scared as hell but, you saddle up and ride in anyway. It is frightening to me. I talk as much as I can with people that I have shared my diagnosis with. I am gaining strength in telling everyone. The thing is that most people are caught off guard by it. Because I look healthy and work daily. Even after surgery. I rested 3 days and went back to work. I of course ended up in the hospital with an abscess. Got that taken care of. Most people don’t know anything. How do you have these conversations about your own personal health and the possibilities of life, with others and not feel like you are bringing down the room? I want support not people feeling sorry for me, or worried I might not win this fight. Real World Problems, right?

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3 comments
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CA

Community Member

a month ago

Sharing a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially when others don't know how to respond. Many people find it helpful to be direct about what kind of support they need - whether that's someone to listen, help with practical tasks, or just treat them normally. Setting the tone by focusing on how others can help rather than the scary aspects often leads to more meaningful conversations and the kind of support that feels right for each situation.

LB

Community Member

13 days ago

Hang in there be positive i have diffused large bcell lymphoma and am receiving r chop for treatment i too find it difficult to reach out to people i always tell everyone im ok even when im not as not tto cause worry or sound like a downer

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GE

Community Member

11 days ago

Well let us both begin to realize we are important, too. Lisa thank you for reaching out to me. That tells me. I am not alone too. I hope that everything goes well with your treatment. I hope you had a great Holiday with friends and family. I did. It always makes me feel so much better

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