This is just my line of thought but I am sure there are other people who can identify with this. Carcinoid Cancer can be a blessing in regards to your appearance as the majority of us patients don’t experience the physical signs of cancer, weight loss, hair loss and generally looking unwell. I use the word ” blessing” because in my eyes it is a blessing, however people make assumptions reflecting on your appearance.
I have gained weight due to the cancer and the overload medication hasn’t helped. I recently had to get my wedding ring cut off and resized due to weight gain. Whats more I was shocked and on the other hand not surprised that it had to be increased in size by 6 ring sizes, yes 6. I’m lucky to have long blonde hair that I can style. Furthermore I have black rings under my eyes but that can be concealed with make up. I do have a tendency to not dwell on my illness, therefore its less obvious to some people.
I believe unless people can see the physical signs of a generic cancer you don’t have an illness. I do have a small network of people who thoroughly understand what I am going through on a daily basis.Trust me, I’m feeling the daily effects of cancer and no day is the same, a good day in my eyes maybe completely different to you. I can get excited over achieving the laundry or writing an email to someone. Tasks that I was more than competent on doing with my eyes closed.
This is not about my daily struggles, this is about people assuming your ok because of how you look. Dont make assumptions, communication is key, speak to the patient, and learn what they are having to deal with. It’s the same in regards to interpretation of support but I will save that one for another day.
zebrakat 
I get what you’re saying! People generally assume that there are two possible outcomes when you’re diagnosed with cancer. You either die or you get better. Since I’m still alive and I look fine, they assume that my battle with cancer is over. Many have no idea that it can be a chronic disease.
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I find it a very strange phenomenon, your insides are doing all sorts of things to make you feel rubbish, but you look fine, on the days it shows I don’t tend to socialise. So not many people fat to see that. Thanks god for makeup😉 Xx
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*tend not fat 🙄
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Flip, fingers really aren’t working well today, *tend not to see that😳
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I have to get my wedding rings re-sized on my to-do list. It’s funny because the typical pheochromocytoma cases you hear about, people lose tons of weight. My first, this was the case. Not this time, total opposite. Also, the steroids (being adrenal insufficient) have made me gain a little, and retain more fluids. I miss my diamonds <333, now that I think about it LOL! I just realized I haven’t been able to wear them in quite a little while.
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Yep thats me too the weight gainer yet other patients experience weight loss. Wedding ring. Well worth the money, get it done, I felt lost without mine. X
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