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How do I tell my family about my colon cancer diagnosis?

Community Member

15 days ago

I just got told today that I have a golf ball size tumor in my right side of my colon. Also have lymph nodes involved in the lungs and peritoneal area on CAT scan. I was scheduled for a colonoscopy either this Friday or next Tuesday to get a biopsy. They're already talking about a chemo port being put in. I was also told the tumor isn't through the colon wall and is still encapsulated so I'm not sure how there's metastasis. Haven't told anyone yet and I'm scared to tell them. My 42 year old daughter is 7 years in remission from bladder cancer from her job as a firefighter. She received a neo bladder after they removed her blader and left kidney and ureter. She's now doing amazing. I'm afraid to scare her and my younger son because their older brother was murdered in 2001 and I know they're going to freak out thinking I'm going to die. Not sure what to do yet. I don't think I want to have surgery and/or chemo but we'll see.

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Community Member

15 days ago

Telling family about a cancer diagnosis is one of the hardest conversations to have, especially when they've already experienced so much loss and health challenges. Consider starting with the facts you know so far and emphasizing that you're still gathering information from your medical team - this can help them focus on supporting you through the diagnostic process rather than jumping to worst-case scenarios. Many people in this community have found it helpful to have these conversations when they feel ready and to let family members know specific ways they can help during this time.

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How do I tell my family about my colon cancer diagnosis?

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