I’m just wondering what help I can get for my 17 year old daughter. We’re incredibly close and she’s going to be devastated so looking for some support for her. Is there a counselling service for family members that I should be contacting?
Hi again Foody50, those looking on during a cancer journey have as much challenges as the person going through treatments so it’s good that you are looking for the best way to support your daughter.
In the first instance you may want to call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Talking to people face to face can indeed help a lot but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up.
Do also check out for a local Maggie’s Centre as these folks are amazing and support all the family. During lockdown a lot of their services moved onto online video support. But I see our local Maggie’s (Inverness) are starting to open up for one on one support.
Talk with your Breast Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist Nurse as they may well know of any local support that is available.
Also bring this topic up in our Breast cancer group as these folks most likely have all had to deal with this very challenge.
Finally you may find some of these Macmillan resources helpful on understanding childrens' reactions and also talking to children when an adult has cancer. You can also download, or order a paper copy, of this booklet.
Always around to chat.
((hugs))
