[boing]

A couple of days ago I was diagnosed with a pelvic mass the size of a walnut, and I will have to be hospitalized. If it's cancer, I'll have to be away from home a lot for chemo and/or radiation treatments.

Besides the obvious fear of having cancer, I'm just as worried, more worried actually, about having to be away from home for treatments. And dying...now that's a long trip away from home.

How the hell does an agoraphobic go to the hospital?

I know there aren't any answers to this, I'm just mad and scared and wanted to tell somebody.

[mj14]

boing, I hope all goes well for you. Is there something from home that you could bring with you to the hospital, that you could maybe hold and get some of that "safe at home" feeling? It's just a thought.

Take care.
*hugs*
mj

[lorieann]

Its hard I know. I am agoraphobic too...but for the past year I have forced myself to leave the house one day a week to see my therapist. Are you on any meds for anxiety? Will you have someone with you when you leave? That helps. I think once you get to the hospital and get settled in, chances are you will be ok. For me...its just the act of leaving the home that is the most tramatic for me.
Just remember. YOU WILL NOT DIE. You might feel like you will, but you wont. Breathe deeply, move quickly, and make sure the people at the hospital are aware of your condition.
Just like a band aid...it hurts less if you just rip it off.

[Ashley0000]

Hi,
ok my mom had a simliar conditon(medical) as you and she was completely fine. So think positive you will be in my prayers. I've been hospitalized before for my panic attacks, and yes it is hard, i love being home and hate leaving it, i'm not what my dr says as a"full blown agoraphobic" but i do show some symptoms. this is what helped me when i was hospitalized, if you are going to be there awhile bring everything that calms you or reminds you of home like your pillow, a stuffed animal, pictures things like that. and i know the staff at the hospital will be very compassionate and willing to help you with your every need...good luck and best wishes.
ashley