Supporting sister with advanced metastatic breast cancer

FormerMember
FormerMember
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Two weeks ago my sister was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to liver, lungs and lymph nodes. She has had no symptoms and this picked up when noticed  enlarged lymph nodes under her arm. I am very close  to my sister and will be one of her main support people as she goes through aggressive chemotherapy.

The whole situation is terrifying and overwhelming- I am wanting information on best ways I can support my sister through this. Also want suggestions for best ways I can take care of myself while walking beside her through this.

  • Hi  and warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community although sorry that you had to find us and especially sorry to hear about your sisters BC diagnosis.

    A cancer diagnosis in the family can indeed by terrifying and overwhelming in equal measures but talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer treatment journey will help you navigate this challenging time and help you help your sister.

    The Community is organised into support groups so can I recommend you have a look at our....

    Breast cancer

    Liver, secondary cancer

    Lung, secondary cancer

    Lymph nodes, secondary cancer

    groups as these will be good places to connect with patients and families navigating the same type of cancer treatment journeys across the different cancer presentation.

    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'. 

    Talking with others caring for family will help a lot also so do check also out our

    Family and friends 

    Carers only

    groups as you will connect with others walking the same 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.

    To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers can be found on our Online Information and Support Section

    ((hugs))

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

    Community Champion Badge

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to Thehighlander

    Thank you 

  • I do hope that the info may help you navigate this journey along with your sister ((hugs))

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

    Community Champion Badge

  • Hello, I know exactly how you are feeling, my sister was diagnosed and had chemo straight away. She seemed to just get on with it and I felt helpless and overwhelmed. A day at a time is all I did, just make sure you eat and drink and rest yourself as your sister needs your strength too. Make sure to take time out too, time to reflect and recharge yourself. It’s tough but you can do it and your sister will appreciate every minute