Alone in Melbourne newly diagnosed

Question

Hello! Umm I came to Melbourne last week from interstate for breast lump testing. It’s confirmed cancer and I am awaiting staging, this week. I don’t know Melbourne and am alone and scared, confused, exhausted, overwhelmed and in a lot of pain. I am very concerned about metastases for some reasons I don’t want to even say.&nbsp;Is there a GP or any service or anything I can connect with? I am finding Melbourne HUGE and very hectic and overwhelming compared to my small town. It takes me many hours to even find food or get anywhere.&nbsp;Non ideal scenario, but I know better placed here for proper diagnostics and initial care. &nbsp;I am just very scared and alone and in pain.&nbsp;

kristen · Answer

@sologogmum&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; check out https://www.thinkpink.org.au/ in Docklands, call your closest McGrath BC nurse, they have a search by postcode on thier website, and they will know local services to suggest, yes do go to a support group asap , breast cancer one, all cancers, in person is best, but zoom or online or even a phone one like cancer council has, anything mental health, knitting, walking.. anything to connect with others. Community centres often have many programs , or people to help&nbsp; you learn to do online shopping, grocery delivery, sometimes clubs have helpers or groups to met , aged care services and churches often have social groups . Join your local area facebook groups too and you may&nbsp; see local events and services things there. Used google maps if you can to 'walk' around your area and look at street view and get familar with your area without having to do the physical walking will help you feel more connected to you&nbsp; area and feel better and help reduce your worrying. Its hard. But remember to try not to worry until the doctor actually confirms anything. Even metatastes can very often be treated and managed for many many years ( I know many ladies stage 4 for years and years)&nbsp; and&nbsp; now there are so many good treatment options. Its actually much easier to make new friends when you have something in common, cancer is very very common. Hang in there babe.You got country smarts. You can do this.Alos ask your doctor for referals to hospital social worker as they know what local services there are too, and councelling. It is an anxious time for anyone going through cancer diagnosis and treatment and imprtant to do anything you can to help yourself not leg the 'black dog' cloud of depression&nbsp; get bigger.&nbsp; Love and best wishes . K. ( 18 year survivor)

tri · Answer

Hi @SoloDogMum&nbsp;I am really sorry to hear you’re on your own in the city. I am not sure which hospital you’re attending but there is usually a support service connected with the bigger hospitals, like the Peter McCallum Cancer&nbsp;https://www.petermac.org/patients-and-carers/support-and-wellbeingAnd there’s also the Olivia Newton John cancer centre in Heidelberg&nbsp;https://www.onjcancercentre.org/patients-family/diagnosis-treatment/your-wellness-mattersIt might also be worth finding a local library near where you’re staying and they could help look up the local medical centres where you are?Sending you positive vibes and good wishes 🌻

solodogmum · Answer

Thank you so much! I feel okkkkkk. But am just so worried about it straight up being found in my bones, etc. that just seems really non ideal 😬🙈. Anyway. I guess one day at a time is all that can be done! &nbsp;

julez1958 · Answer

Hi just wondering how you are getting on?

arpie · Answer

I am So sorry to see you joining our exclusive 'club' - the one that no-one wants to join :(&nbsp; &nbsp;Do you have access to a car for getting to &amp; from appointments &amp; for shopping?&nbsp; &nbsp; What age are you?&nbsp; If 'older', you may be able to access some subsidised taxi/community travel vehicles ....&nbsp;Try not to get ahead of yourself with the 'what ifs' as they are outside of your control &amp; worrying about it now, only mucks with your mind. xx .... Most initial diagnoses don't show Metastases xx&nbsp;&nbsp;Could I ask which state you have travelled from?&nbsp; And, how come you are now in Melbourne for diagnosis (and assuming) Surgery &amp; treatment?&nbsp; It is always better if we are surrounded by family &amp; friends for support and comfort xxI am guessing that you don't have family or friends in Melbourne ... which would understandably be very scary xx&nbsp; &nbsp;Maybe, tomorrow, give our HelpLine a bell on 1800 500 258 for a chat .... they may be able to help with your anxiety xxTake care &amp; all the best for your appt this week xx