Putting yourself last

It is kind of better if the cancer strikes at an older age where kids are grown you aren't the sole lynch pin for the whole family but we older ones don't have it all that easy either. We come from an era where speaking openly about woman's troubles especially health or the taboo one sex just isn't the done thing unless its with your closest inner circle.

The internet has changed all of that and these forums are just an absolute godsend for those to have learned to use it. I can private message to people all over the world and they have become very close online friends even though we have never met. We have common interests and what's the old saying 'two heads are better than one'?

I spend a lot of time on face book, for those who wish to join me as friends I am Brenda Irwin on there and private messages pop up immediately and in real time. You don't even have to be my friend as there is an 'other' message box notification for that. There will be a stripy looking black and white fish near my photo. My best friend will be with me online while I sit with my laptop and internet prepaid usb today while I have my chemo. How good is that?

If you are at peace with yourself in this battle that's just the best. Not doing the washing on time all the time, not cleaning floors isn't high on my list of vitals, my mind is.

Younger cancer sufferers with children are possibly quite well supported as it can be their children's school friends who also need support and those friends tell their mums and some of those mums can bring support to the cancer mum.

Young ones have it all over on us with the internet and their iphones and texting. I have yet to figure out how to text. I know, its supposed to basic stuff right? I have a mental block on that one.

My point really is knowledge is power. The more I learn about this cancer the better equipped I am with pre-planning every step of the way. All my neighbours know about me and they are there if my family and I need them.

Don't be too afraid to ask!