Finding it harder to cope

Hi Swallow123. I'm in a similar position - early 20s, at uni. My dad just got diagnosed about a week ago with a brain tumour. It all happened so fast. The last time I saw him was at christmas, where he was so healthy, active and social. Now he's still my dad but he's struggling to follow conversation, remember people's names he's known all his life, etc. The only thing I want is a hug from my dad and him to tell me it's all going to be ok - but he's the last person who can do that right now. I just want to ask my dad how to cope with this, but he can't help me anymore, or guide me like he used to. I have no idea how to really support him, he's so cheerful and brave. I guess just trying to be there - if you can take time off from uni, or get extensions, and try and be home with your mum, maybe take her out for coffee and things now before she's sick. I'm so grateful my dad and I have a good relationship and I got to be close to him for years before this. But it's still too young to lose a parent or watch them be sick. 

Hi, thank you so much for responding! It's really nice to hear from someone who's in a similar situation. It's so difficult because as we grow up we look to our parents to take care of us, but when one of them gets cancer, it's like the roles become reversed. It really helps, though, to know that I have a really strong relationship with my mum, like you do with your dad. When I feel really down about her diagnosis, thinking about time that we've spent together really helps. Thank you for your advice, it's really helpful, and I'll definitely be getting in contact with my uni to see what I can do about taking time off in order to support my mum. Sending best wishes to you and your dad, I know he's so proud of you right now. 

Thanks for replying too! It is so much like the roles are reversed - now instead of my dad looking out for me, I'm having to help him in conversations, put his socks on, etc. I don't mind at all, but I also am scared he'll be feeling depressed as it's the first time in a long while he hasn't been able to look after himself. Best wishes to your and your mum, taking some time off at the moment from uni would really help I reckon <3