Hi all,
Just joined so apologies if I shouldn't post this in this category.
So, my mother was diagnosed with a very rare adrenal cancer in September last year. She's currently on her forth round of chemotherapy. She's still fighting it, but understandably is depressed about the current situation. She's lost a lot of confidence within herself and her mental and physical health has taken a significant knock. She's currently waiting for an NHS cancer therapist. However, she's on a waiting list. Even though she has a life expectancy of max 5 years.
I wondering is there any Cancer related therapy alternatives?
Do Macmillan do anything like that? My family as a whole is quite dysfunctional when it comes to dealing with emotions. My mother and myself have benefitted from therapy in the past for unrelated issues. Though I do feel as does my mum, that the whole family would benefit from talking about the situation in a safe and open space.
The situation as a whole just sucks.
My mum was diagnosed whilst I was undertaking my final year at university. After having taken a two year academic hiatus due to mental health. Which, unfortunately shook the entirety of our family. Due to this, she told not to come home and study, focusing on my degree. She was more concerned about my mental health and future prospects.
At present, I have now graduated with said degree. Literally, had the official graduation ceremony last night. I was really happy she was able to attend and enjoy herself. But, after a few drinks with close friends and family the weight of the shit cancer situation sank to the depths of myself.
Due to this, I'm writing at stupid O'clock after a few drinks. Looking for a way to get myself and my families mental health above water. I know everyone deals with a diagnosis differently but I feel for my Dad, because he talks and acts as if my mothers passing is absolute. Though doctors haven't said that's the case yet. What should I do?
Also, if anyone has any advice on how to broach the subject with close friends? As a means of maintaining a healthy support network. I just don't want to be a burden my friends and extended family as they all have their own issues. I'm tired of being told "you're so strong" etc....a brave face only gets you so far.
Apologies, for the long winded essay. Any and all feedback is appreciated.
Hi and welcome to the Online Community although so sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis, this is such a hard time for all the family but I do hope you will find lots of comfort and support here on the Online Community.
The New to Community area is like our reception where we can signpost our many dedicated support groups and services so can I recommend you start by joining our Kidney cancer group. This is a safe place to talk to other people who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience or are supporting someone on their cancer journey.
If you'd like to connect in with a group, you need to join the group. First click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens 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 hit ‘Start a Discussion in New here, say hello’ and you are ready to go.
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.
When it comes to the specific practical challenges of supporting someone on their cancer journey you may benefit from joining our supportive Family and friends group where you will connect with others supporting family and friends
I wondering is there any Cancer related therapy alternatives?
Do Macmillan do anything like that?
Could I suggest you call the Macmillan Support Line, this service is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via web chat. This service provides cancer information, emotional support, benefits 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 in your area.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best.
