Reaching out for help.... My mum has recently been diagnosed with cancer. She is 83 and they have found secondary tumors in her lungs and neck. She also has idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, so requires oxygen most of the day. My biggest issue at the moment is her short term memory..it is poor and it causes friction between us, as I'm her primary carer but I work ft and can't be with her everyday....she doesn't remember to take her medication regularly and even forgets if she's eaten! She's reluctant to have carers coming in and is very independent, so doesn't accept outside support easily. I'm at a loss, as to how I help her going forward. Doc's, at present, are not able to provide a prognosis but she is non-curable and under palliative care... They have hinted at months! I'm feeling lost!!
Hi and warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community although sorry that you had to find us and especially sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis and the challenges you are facing.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family brings many questions, much confusion and lots of stress but talking with others who are walking the same type of journey will help you navigate this challenging time.
The Community is organised into dedicated support groups and I see you have joined some of our support groups
supporting someone with incurable cancer group
These would be good places to connect with families navigating the same type of cancer journey.
To go to any of the groups just click on the link above.
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘New Thread’ or hit the box with the X on the top right (phones), you could just copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
Talking with others caring for family and friends will help a lot so do check out our Family and friends and Carers only groups as you will connect with others walking the complicated journey supporting family and friends through their cancer journey.
It’s always good to talk and the Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here to see what is available and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
((hugs))
