Hi friends, i've joined to get information to support my sister through Chemo, which starts tomorrow. I like to fix everything, so far i've tried really hard to strike a balance berween being supportive but not interfering and being positive but realistic.
Hi Bridget BTBB and welcome to the Online Community although I am sorry to hear about sisters diagnosis. It’s great that you want to support her and yes there is a balance as to what you can do.
A cancer diagnosis in the family can be such a stressful and challenging time but I do hope you will find the community a safe place to get support and ask your questions.
The Community has various support groups (discussion rooms)
You don’t say what type of cancer she has, this is important when it comes to chemotherapy as it can be so different across cancer types but if you care to have a look through this list you will find all our many dedicated cancer support groups listed. These groups are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) link I have created above. Then once you find the group for your sister cancer type 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.
When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting someone you may also benefit from joining our general Family and friends groups where you will connect with others in the same position.
Macmillan have many support services so do check out the Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. These services provide cancer information, practical information, emotional support or just a listening ear. We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Your sister may benefit from talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
Give me a shout if you need further help.
Best regards.
