my husband was diagnosed with cancer

[fgshepherd]

Today, my husband got the results of his prostate test, and it turns out it is cancer. I feel sad and alone right now. I know NO ONE who has ever dealt with this. I'm trying to learn all about it, but there isn't a lot of information out there, aside from sometimes it's slow growth sometimes is fast. Well, no duh, isn't all cancer? I don't want to talk to my family about it, as they tend to be overly dramatic, and I don't think I want to even go there. I've got to keep control over my mind (for now).

[NewbieShepherdGirl]

I'm so sorry. My dad had cancer, bladder not prostate, and I know isolating that can feel. I don't really have much to offer but just wanted to say I'll be praying for you and your family.

[GSDBESTK9]

I'm so sorry, I will keep you in my prayers.

[Lilie]

I am so sorry to hear about your husband. This will be a difficult time for you as the caregiver and your husband as the patient.

When my husband was dx with Melanoma, he was treated at MD Anderson. I joined their web site and found tons of support and information there. Even links to other forums that were helpful and informational.

The #1 thing to remember is your husband IS NOT A STATISTIC. He is an individual. Don't get hung up on statistics. They are based on 5 or 10 years of studies and research. Cancer research has made huge bounds in treatment and medicines within the last few years. Remember that, it is very important.

#2, educate yourself. learn terms, medicines, treatment choices etc. Absorb all you can. Take control of your husband's treatment. By joining different forums and groups you can just lurk away until you are ready to ask questions.

I purchased a large binder that I kept all of his medical records, results, Dr. visits etc. in. As silly as it sounds is it helped me (as the caregiver) to feel like I had control. I had all the information I needed at my finger tips when we went to the doctor.

I also started a journal (learned that from a forum) so I could release my feelings with out having to rely on my husband to hold me up. I felt I had to be strong, and I was afraid I'd fall apart if I didn't release it somehow. It really worked for me. Someday, I'll share it with my husband. When I'm ready.

November 2012 will be 5 years since he was dx. He remains cancer free.

[blehmannwa]

I'm sorry to hear about this. Information is good, I hope that you have a good DR.

[robinhuerta]

The strength of prayer is powerful......you & your husband are in mine.

[DharmasMom]

I am very sorry to hear that. You and your husband are in my thoughts. If you have a university medical center near you, go to an oncologist there. Also, if he needs to have a prostatectomy, see if he is a candidate to have it done with the Da Vinci robot. The surgery is less invasive and the recovery time is faster. I wish you both the best.

[onyx'girl]

My dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer about 8 years ago and is still with us! He had the radioactive seed implants as his treatment plan.
He just celebrated his 76th birthday yesterday. I hope your doctor refers you to a great specialist and treatments will be successful. I'll keep you both in my prayers, prayer is powerful for sure.

[KSdogowner]

I am so sorry to hear fgshepherd. May this cancer come to nothing. My thoughts and prayers for you and your husband and family.

[KZoppa]

Sending prayers and hugs! my grandpa received a lung cancer diagnosis not too long ago and they'll just now begin treatment next week. Learn all you can and keep track of everything. You've gotten some good advice and keeping your sanity. Keep us posted. Again prayers.