You may feel numb, unable to believe what is happening or to express any emotion. This need for repetition is a common reaction to shock. Some people may find their feelings of disbelief make it difficult for them to talk about their illness with their family and friends. Others may feel an overwhelming urge to discuss it with those around them. This may be a way of helping them to accept the news themselves.
Cancer is a frightening word surrounded by fears and myths.
In fact, nowadays many cancers are curable if caught at an early enough stage. When a cancer is not completely curable, modern treatments often mean that the disease can be controlled for years and many patients can live an almost normal life. In fact, many people with cancer feel no pain at all. For those who do, there are many modern drugs and other techniques which are very successful at relieving pain or keeping it under control. Other ways of easing pain or preventing you from feeling pain are radiotherapy and nerve blocks.