Hi
im new to this but trying to think of new ways to cope. My mum was diagnosed with a brain tumour in October and is undergoing treatment. She takes one step forwards and then like five steps backwards. I have some basic medical knowledge and work within a hospital so her and my family expect me to have all the answers. I don’t. Struggling to know what to say or if to say anything to keep her mood up (and my own I guess) and wondering if anyone has any suggestions
Please xx
Hi and welcome to the Online Community, although I am sorry to see you finding us and so sorry to hear about your mum..
A cancer diagnosis can bring a lot of stress, confusion and many questions on all the family and unfortunately as you work in the hospital - “you are the expert” but this is unfair to put that pressure on you. Yes you and the other family members need to get clear information so a family note book could be a tool where you all collect questions and “whoever” is able to ask them takes notes and passes out the information...... and don’t be the one that goes to every appointment or asks all the questions
I have talked with many medical professionals including GPs and Consultants on the Community who come to find out about their type of cancer diagnosis....... as they are just as confused.
Talking with people who are on the same journey can help a lot so can I direct you to this link to our very supportive Brain tumours group as this will open up your concerns to a wider audience who know exactly what you are going through at the moment.
Just follow the link I have created then hit the ‘Join This Group’ tab just under the main group name, then go to the 'Start a Discussion' tab and set up your very own Discussion and introduce yourself to the group and ask your questions.
I see that you found our Carers Only and Friends and Family groups, these are good places where you can connect with others supporting family through their cancer journey but more importantly the carers care for each other.
You may find our various Macmillan Support Line Services to be helpful - call them on 0808 808 00 00 This free service covers Emotional Support, Practical Information. Clinical Information, Financial Support and Work Guidance mostly open 8.00 to 8.00 but check the link.
We also have our ‘Ask an Expert’. section where you can post questions to our mostly Volunteer Experts but please allow 2 working days to get a reply.
Talking to people face to face can help a lot so check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area or a Maggie’s Centre as these folks are amazing.
When you feel up to it try putting some information in your profile. This really helps others when answering. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. Just click on YOUR username, select 'Edit Profile'. Put as much or as little in your profile and you can amend it at any time - you can see members profiles by hitting our forum names.
All the very best.
