I choose ME for all of you

A diagnosis of testicular cancer, and even more so at an advanced stage, can change your relationships with certain people around you. Why? People do not all handle the announcement of a serious illness in the same way; so some of them can feel uncomfortable discussing this delicate matter with you. On the other side, it will not change your relationships with others at all, or you will be even closer to them.

The values you grew up with may affect how you think about and deal with cancer. Some people may feel they have to be strong and protect their friends and families. Others seek support from loved ones or other cancer survivors or turn to their faith to help them cope. Some seek help from counselors and others outside the family, while others don’t feel comfortable with this approach.

Whatever you decide, it’s important to do what’s right for YOU and try not to compare yourself with others.

Medically reviewed by Urologic Oncologist Dr. Robert J. Hamilton on 11/22/2022

Defining My Expectations

You cannot guess how your entourage will react when facing testicular cancer. Yet, you can express your expectations or your needs regarding some people, that is to say, you can indicate to them the kind of support you are expecting from them, whether it is practical help or simply to be listened to.

Nothing obliges you to share the details of your situation with everyone either. Thus, when you do not wish to talk about the disease or your treatment, you should mention it straight away to those you are with since it might be the first subject they will try to discuss. After all, there are thousands of other topics to talk about!

Confiding Myself and Asking for Help

Everyone needs to confide in someone, and it is even truer when it comes to facing a hardship such as advanced testicular cancer. Whether it is your life partner, your best friend or another relative, it is important for you to have someone to talk to about your worries or your feelings, without receiving advice back.

Moreover, other people in your entourage will always be available to help you in different ways. Even if it is difficult for you, do not hesitate to request their help when you feel that you need it.

Understanding My New “Normal”

Those who have gone through cancer treatment describe the first few months as a time of change. It’s not so much “getting back to normal” as it is finding out what’s normal for you now. People often say that life has new meaning or that they look at things differently now. You can also expect things to keep changing as you begin your recovery. Your new “normal” may include making changes in the way you eat, the things you do, your circle of friends or your sources of support.

This new “normal” belongs to you, and you only. And no, you are not being selfish by putting yourself first. It’s called survivorship!

Take the necessary time to visit each of our pages on this website to familiarize yourself with the disease. Do you have questions or concerns? Above all, do not hesitate. Contact us via Messenger on our Facebook page. It’s simple, free and confidential.

Video to review
Get To Know Your Balls
Let’s Talk Balls

Pages of our site that might interest you
Want to know more? Just click on the link below.
Treatment

TCC news that may interest you
Each month, we publish a blog article. Here are a few for you.
Testicular cancer: 6 tips to improve sleep
Dear stress: I think it’s time to break up!
Does sugar really feed cancer cells?

ADMINJanuary 10, 2023Comment