My dad has recently been diagnosed with multiple myeloma. This diagnosis came at a time when I didn't think things could get any worse. My father had cancer back in 2006 and lives with only 1 kidney as a result however, he has always been happy and health, fit and strong. But very suddenly this changed. 16 weeks ago my father suffered a stroke behind his eye resulting in him losing his eye sight in one eye. A few weeks later I almost lost my dad to multiple organ failure, no one knows why or how or what it is from and it happened all so fast. His kidney has not recovered and now is dependent on dialysis. And then the cancer diagnosis. Juggling dialysis and chemo has been hard. Seeing my father be so ill and so weak has been hard. Being the primary carer for my father has been hard. Doing this whilst juggling a Masters degree in Law has been hard. I am only 23, I am scared, I am struggling, I am overwhelmed. The cancer isn't curable, his kidneys may never function again which will change both our lives even more. I need help, I need support. I feel so alone. My own mental health is declining rapidly. How do I care for the both of us?
Hi and a warm welcome to the Online Community although so sorry to hear about your dad and the changes you are facing. I do hope you will find lots of comfort and support from people who understand here on the Online Community.
The Online Community has many dedicated support groups and when it comes to the practical challenges of supporting someone we have a few groups. I see you have joined and posted in our Carers only group and you may find our Supporting someone with incurable cancer group helpful as well as these are places where you will connect with others supporting family and friends
You need care as much as your dad and 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.
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))
