My son was diagnosed with thyroid cancer just over two years ago. He had surgery ten days later, then another two months later then radioactive iodine treatment the following February. He was lucky enough to get the all clear in January. He now has a problem with his scar needing surgery and his meds aren’t settling. I got fired twice due to being ‘unreliable’ as I took time off. Both my children are struggling emotionally and so am I. I never really stopped throughout the whole thing, working as a single parent as much as I could but am now financially struggling and emotionally I feel like I never processed any of it. I am still working really long hours and cannot afford any counselling and cannot access anything as I’m always at work. I guess I’m just asking if it’s normal to feel completely exhausted and overwhelmed and snappy as hell right now? I feel so isolated and the worst company for anyone. Any tips? I wish there was someone in my life who would say I did good. Because I know I did. Thank goodness for the dog. Sorry for moaning x
Hi CJC
Like you said - thank goodness for the dog - but you have been really through the wringer so I see no moaning just somebody coping with a remarkable poor situation.
If it helps our phoneline is open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm. It can be amazing how supportive we can get typing at each other on here but sometimes just another voice can help and sometimes it takes a complete stranger to help us open up.
You mention your children - how old are they. Our son is 19 now but has lived with my wife's cancer for more of his life than anything else and we were so lucky to have some really supportive teachers in the schools.
<<hugs>>
Steve
Thank you for taking the time to reply. My son is now 20 and my daughter is 18. My son was diagnosed with autism at 5 and then type 1 diabetes at 12. It has not been easy for either of them at all. We have had limited family support. And by that I mean I get told to ‘not bring negative energy’ by my very wealthy family. Their dad seeks to peddle in the opposite direction, trying to reduce maintenance during the cancer surgeries. I’m wallowing in self pity a little to be fair. Currently off work as my boss thought slapping my arse and making advances was ok and then bullying me with threats of being fired when I declined. I do wonder who I must have been in a past life….
Hi CJC
My son is also autistic, when he was diagnosed the consultant said he would present some challenges to the education service - they were not wrong. He was recently diagnosed with a benign tumour on his pituitary gland and has had two rounds of brain surgery and 5 and and half weeks of proton beam therapy - but fortunately it seems to be quite effective.
One thing I had to learn in all that we have been through it to take some time to look after myself. Twice now I have been signed of work with stress.
You might like to consider Ask a Work Support Adviser for some guidance on your rights in the workplace - it might help your boss avoid problems they probably do not really want.
<<hugs>>
Steve
I’m so sorry that things have been so challenging but I’m pleased the treatment seems to be effective. I will get myself together. Just hit a bit of a wall today. Sending you all the positive vibes and love. I will get in touch with the work people as you recommended. Thank you so much xx
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007