Hi am new here. Iv lost grandparents to cancer one in 2012 and one in 2019. I am here now due to my children's paternal grandad ( there dads dad) whos 81 being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2021. Sadly this past week hes taken turn for worst. I have 3 kids all under 10( 6,8 and 9) my oldest is close with grandad and we haven't seen him in over a week due illness within kids ( they got a cold and ear infections) and grandad is now bed riden. Kids are aware hes ill ( not how ill) as they have seen him jaundiced and in bed. We visit grandparents every week and live 5 mins away. I have been doing some the shopping for gran to help lighten the load. Two of my kids are also autistic so changes in routine can cause issues, I am not sure if they will fully understand all thats happening or happens. Sadly things went fast so nothing was fully set in place but again am not privy to some of the information. I just try and help if I can ie grab shopping for them.
Hi and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your children’s paternal grandads diagnosis, this is such a hard time for all the family but I do hope you will find lots of comfort and support from people who understand here on the Online Community.
As you have found out the Community has many dedicated support groups and when it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting someone and the family you may benefit from posting in our Family and friends and Supporting someone with incurable cancer groups where you will connect with others supporting family and friends.
If you'd like to connect into this groups click on the Green links I have created above them you can introduce yourself by putting up a new post by clicking in the box near the top right with + New (Computers) or + (Mobile Devices). You will then see a dropdown menu so why not hit ‘Start a Discussion in New here, say hello’
You could copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also search through existing ‘Discussions’ and click [reply] if you want to put up a comment.
It’s always good to talk so do call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, emotional support, benefit and financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre as they give great support for family and children.
You may find some of these Macmillan resources helpful on understanding childrens' reactions and also talking to children when an adult has cancer. You can also download, or order a paper copy, of this booklet.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best ((hugs))
