From the little I have read, this forum seems to be filled with so much information. I am so happy this is available for patients and families. I look forward to learning from those of you who have walked through this journey before me to be the best support for my husband. I know I'm still in the denial stage and it hasn't really hit me yet. I'm overwhelmed and look forward to hearing from you.

Kimberly,

Welcome to OCF. There is a tremendous amount of practical experiences here, all available for you to research and ask questions when not clear. Virtually all of us here are cancer survivors or caretakers so we have been there/seen that for sure.

Please fill out your signature with the details you have so we can understand and help you better.

Don

Hi Kimberly - Welcome to the family. It's a big one with lots of very supportive brothers and sisters to help you and your loved one on this journey. We have all been in your shoes and stood where you stand, so we know what you are going through. Even being an RN, I'm sure you are still terrified right now. Saying that it's normal for you to feel this way I'm sure doesn't help in the least.

It's really your lack of knowledge that has you the most terrified. That's where we come in. The personal side, the information about other people who share your same diagnosis you will find here on the forum. The technical or medical knowledge side you will learn from reading the pages on the OCF website. It's a steep learning curve for new members, but it will get you out of that terrified phase better than anything else. Ending the terrified phase is what will allow you to start sleeping again. So, get busy reading. The next few weeks will be busy for you and your husband. You have a lot to learn in a short period of time.

Last piece of advice for today, try to get your husband to join the forum also. That person to person contact will help him along his journey just as much as it will help you.

take care, write when you need information or just need to talk.

Tony

Hi there.... welcome... if you have questions feel free to ask. Everyone here has been there... either as a patient or caregiver. So there is a mass of experience and information available. hugs...

Hi Kimberly,

Welcome here, I hope you read what Tony (n74tg) said about fear, he's absolutely correct, both in his analysis and his recommendations. Tony "get's it!"

He's also speaking truth when he says how good an idea it would be for your husband to join himself, you two are a team and both players need to be up to date on the current game-plan.

Also, seeing others who have walked the same path before you, and reading what they have to say will go a long way to helping your husband keep things in perspective.

Learning that you have cancer is not a happy thing, but it's not the end of the world either. Life extracts a toll for each of us for our passage through it, no one escapes the toll, we all just pay in different currencies. Cancer is just one of those tolls, and from that perspective, really just another day...

Kimberly, welcome to OCF. You have found the very best place for info and support. As a caregiver you have a difficult job. Dont worry, we will help you with everything. Just remember, always make some time for yourself too.

Best wishes!