Hi everyone. I’m new to this but feel I need to reach out for a bit of support/advice. My dad got given the all clear last August from Oesophageal Cancer but we have been told in recent weeks his cancer has returned and is now incurable. He has recently had an Oesophageal stent fitted to aid eating and drinking and we are currently waiting for some form of treatment plan, although we’ve been told Palliative Chemotherapy is the most likely option due to the quick progression of his cancer. As a Registered Nurse, I’m used to looking after sick people and their families and have a great deal of experience looking after patients who have being diagnosed with cancer. When my dad got diagnosed with cancer for the second time, I was upset, but I’ve always being the strong one of the family and being the support for my mum and sister. I’m struggling with it all now and keep bursting into tears, not sleeping or eating and having nightmares about my dad......(I’m actually crying writing this) I just don’t know what the answer is, I just feel so lost and scared. So if anyone has any advice, it would be much appreciated!
Hi and warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community although sorry that you had to find us and especially sorry to hear about your dad’s diagnosis and the challenges this has brought with it.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family brings many questions but talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer journey will help you navigate this challenging time.
The Community is organised into support groups so can I recommend you join our supportive Family and friends, Carers only and supporting someone with incurable cancer group groups as you will connect with others walking the same journey supporting family and friends through their cancer journey.
To join a group just click on the link above then choose 'click to join' or 'join' (depending on the device you're using) on the page that opens.
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'.
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))
