This is how one woman reacted. These emotions are shared by many people who have radiotherapy, or any treatment for cancer. You have to try to come to terms not only with the illness itself, but also with the treatments and possible side effects. Radiotherapy can bring about physical changes, such as the menopause or hair loss , which are very distressing. We all have our own ways of coping with difficulties.
Some people have a close network of family and friends who provide emotional support.
Others would rather seek help from people who are not involved in their illness. Either way it is important to know that help is available if you need it. Ask at your treatment hospital if local help is available. Lost for words , written for relatives and friends of people with cancer, looks at some of the difficulties people may have when talking about cancer, and suggests ways of overcoming them. Some people find it helpful to talk through their feelings with a trained counsellor .