Hi,
So I don't know where to turn. My grandad was diagnosed with prostate cancer 15yrs ago. The last 3 years his health has drastically changed. Last week, the doctors decided that it would be best to stop his treatment.
I've tried not to read up too much but I'm not daft. I know that we have limited time left.
I don't really have anyone to talk to. I don't want to burden my family with how Im feeling, they have enough to deal with.
How do I explain the situation to my children who are still young and have an amazing relationship with him.
How do I stay strong for everyone?
Hi Louby and a warm welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about your grandads diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be so stressful and challenging but I do hope you find the community a safe place to get support and ask your questions.
The New to Community is like our reception desk where we can signpost you to our various cancer support groups and other services and when it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting someone you may benefit from joining our general Family and friends and Supporting someone with incurable cancer groups where you will connect with others supporting family and friends. These groups are safe places to talk to others who are supporting family and friends on their journey.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) link I have created above. Then once the group 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 or + (Depending on the device you are using) and you are ready to go.
You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post and as always you can reply to existing ‘Discussions’ by click [reply].
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.
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear and our Cancer Nurse Team in our Ask an Expert section helpful but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face when on a cancer journey (patient or family) can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area.
Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing and provide support for all the family.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best.
