Cancer Cost Me My Manhood

By jimmyny23

1 min read

Between the need too rest due to pain, or from overwhelming fatigue I am not able to get as much done as I used to. while it bothers me it has bothered my wife more. She certainly sees me as less of a man and hasn't been afraid to tell me. I've gained weight from steroids and inactivity and I hear about this too. The cancer has taken my manhood and my wife away from me.

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Paula Rosado Moderator
The loss piles up as this disease progresses. It's effects every part of us. Our relationships are hit hard as we struggle to be the best versions of ourselves that we possibly can be. Not everyone is up for the challenge, but success is it's best reward. You are not just your manhood. You are so much more. You are worth it. Hang in there. A man's strength can never be denied. Sincerely, Paula.
1. jimmyny23 Member
 Thank you for your kind response
2. Yolanda Brunson-Sarrabo Moderator & Contributor
 I'm so sorry of the response you've received in your support system. Understand the trials that come with cancer are not your fault. You will learn to take one day at a time as your new norm. Sending positive vibes your way. Check out my buddy Rachaeli's take on the new normal when you get a chance. Best! <a href='https://blood-cancer.com/video/new-normal' target='_blank'>https://blood-cancer.com/video/new-normal/</a>
dan122 Member
I know how you fell. After my transplant I was in this boat. We may lose our identity and the will to live. But I got better, so can you. Marriages used to be in sickness and in health. Now is different. But it is worth to keep talking and not let the silence reign in. And talk to your doctor and see if He/She can help.
Dennis Golden Moderator
I think it is hard for anyone who has not experienced cancer and the impacts of the treatment protocols to have any idea of what you the patient are going through. Other than my weight loss of some 25 lbs in just a few weeks due to my recent run in with blood cancer - people tell me that I do not look like I have cancer. (What ever that means) Basically they "don't get it" nor do they understand I am exhausted physically and emotionally. No matter how you look at it this stuff knocks the hell out of you. Just know you are not alone and you are still the same guy who is exhausted from battle. When I was on steroids for prostate cancer the reverse was true. I went from 172 pounds to 198 pounds in just 2 months. When being treated for cancer most folks say they just do not have the same energy levels. What I will also say it once treatment stops it takes time together back to where you were. It sort of reminds me of landing a plane - you do not drop from 10,000 feet to the tarmac. The getting to the ground is a slowly steady process. Best advice I can offer is hang in there. You are still the man you were prior to this disease and with any luck you will be again
Ann Harper Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention user-id="3644369" username="jimmyny23"/> I'm very sorry you are not supported in the way you hoped. I read one of the responses below and agree, that sharing may be helpful. It's definitely difficult to understand cancer and your partner's world has changed too. Let her know how you feel and ask her how she feels. Hopefully, you can find your new normal together.