Mother in law with cancer has been given a terminal diagnosis and wishes to remain at home - I have taken on her care as her daughters do not want to provide the care and give up their lives. I am given some financial help as I gave up a well paid job to do this but the caring is now 24/7 5 days a week and at times feels unfair. When I took it in I expected to do most of the care but didn’t expect to be treated in the way I am. I am away from home 5 days and nights a week, days off are split days with occasional weekends but in order to have a weekend off I have to do 6 nights and these are for the most part disturbed nights.
I have joined in the hope it is a safe to vent and get support from others in similar situations.
10 years ago I gave up my job to care for my mum but although exhausting, found this easier as she came to live with me and my family and so I was able to be at home.
Hi and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your mother in law’s diagnosis and how you are carrying the burden of care but I do hope you will find lots of comfort and support from people who understand here on the Online Community.
The Community has many dedicated support groups and when it comes to the practical challenges of supporting someone you may benefit from joining our supportive Carers only 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 group, you need to join the group. First click on the Green link I have created above. Then click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then 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, practical information, emotional support, benefit and financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Talking to people face to face can indeed help a lot but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best ((hugs))
