Hi, my dad has received a recent terminal diagnosis of stomach cancer that has spread. There is no recommended treatment and just a few months left. The news has devastated our family and I am left wondering how I can cope while supporting him and the rest of my family. I really want to make the rest of this time as comfortable as I can for him while looking after myself emotionally. I just feel lost and angry and scared. But mostly let down and sad.
Hi Slipper lady
Thank you for posting on the Macmillan Community, my name’s Vicky and I’m a Support Advisor here at Macmillan. I’m so very sorry to hear this about your dad, it’s understandable you’re all devastated, seeing a loved one go through this is truly one of the worst things a person experience in their life and to have all these feelings you’re having is completely natural.
As you mentioned, it’s important to look after yourself and your family through this, emotionally and physically too, I’m glad you’re thinking of that because no everyone does. I want you to know that we’re here on the Support Lines, as a place you all can contact privately and confidentially to talk through how you’re feeling and access emotional support, especially when you say you’re feeling ‘sad and let down’, that’s something you might want to talk about in more detail with us? We’re here every single day, from 8am to 8pm, you can talk to us by calling 0808 808 0000 or by chat if you prefer. Some people also find it helpful to chat with others who may be going through similar feelings and situations to yourself, if this is something you might find helpful we have a family and friends forum where you can do this too.
Is your dad at home, do you have care coming in to help if he needs it? If he doesn’t then you may want to talk to his GP or cancer team about getting help with carers, district nurses, palliative teams etc., families often, understandably, want to care for a loved one themselves but it can be really difficult and by getting any help that’s available you it can ease some of the pressure and allow you to focus on spending quality time with your dad.
I really would encourage you to give us a call, Slipper Lady, so that we can talk things through with you, sometimes even just talking with someone out with your family and friends circle can really help, we’re here for you so please do get in touch as much as needed.
Kindest regards,
Remember you can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or by email.
