Hi my mum was diagnosed with terminal cancer a couple of months ago and just recently is deteriorating fast now to the point we are needing her doctor or a district nurse to assess her and also see how my dad and the family are coping .How do I approach this please?we are all still trying to get our heads round it all .
Hi and welcome to the Online Community, although I am always sorry to see folks finding us and so sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis.
A terminal cancer diagnosis brings a lot of confusion, stress and many questions but talking with other people who are on the same type of journey helps a lot. As my journey is rather different you may find some of ours support groups helpful so can I direct you to our Carers only and Supporting someone with incurable cancer groups as these would be a great benefit as you will connect with others supporting family through their cancer journey.
Follow the links I've created above then choose ‘click to join' when the page opens.
You can then introduce yourself and post questions selecting '+New' or '+' (depending on your device) you can also join in with existing discussions by clicking on 'reply'.
The Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information and support. The service is open every day 8am to 8pm and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here for more information.
You can also email them, use the online chat and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
All the very best.
Hi Templebar
So sorry to read your terrible news, quite devastating for you all and a huge shock. Not sure from your post who you have supporting yourself but if there are people around you do speak to them about this as well as to your Mum and Dad as much as you feel appropriate. First thing to do is contact your GP as soon as possible who will be able to put you in contact with the right medical personnel or better still speak to the person who gave you the terminal diagnosis. I would have hoped that you would have all received a package of support at the point of diagnosis but as you say now is the time to get that in place to establish care options available.
Do talk openly about this with your family. There will be many fears and these need to be expressed. There will be so many tears, this is natural and a good thing. No two ways about it you are very sadly going to have a total roller coaster of emotions, all of you, but the person that needs the most care is obviously your Mum, her needs are paramount and taking care of and focusing on her will help you all at this stage.
Really sad to read your post, I have been there and know it is heart breaking. Use all the help offered, there are quite wonderful people out there who will help in all aspects of this tragic situation.
Wishing you the very best and keep posting on here as and when you need to.
Cancer may affect my body, but I won’t let it affect my spirit
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