Hi everyone, I don’t really know where to start. This is all really new to me but reaching out to try and gather some support and thought this was the best place.
My mum has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer which has spread through her womb and lymph nodes to different parts of the body. She is due to start chemo next Wednesday. it is terminal and only palliative care. They have said without chemo she would have only 4 months but with there is a chance at a year or two.
I’m so close to my mum, she’s my best friend and I talk to her everyday and I feel like I’m not ready in anyway. She is being amazing, strong and positive and I’m trying my best to do the same for her. I am finding it extremely challenging to navigate.
To add to things I’ve got a newborn who is only 2 months old. Pretty overwhelming. I’m in a different city 2 hours away from mum and they have said that we need to be so careful and for her not to travel during chemo. How do you find the balance? I want to see her as much as possible but don’t want to put her at risk or exhaust her in anyway. It’s so difficult. I’d love some advice from anyone who has had similar situations. Thank you
Hi and welcome to the Online Community although I am sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis and prognosis. A cancer diagnosis like this 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.
I see that you have noticed that the Community is divided into support groups (discussion rooms) abd you have joined and put up a post in our Supporting someone with incurable cancer group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
It’s hard dealing with the practical and emotional challenges of supporting family but you may also benefit from joining our general Family and friends group where you may connect with others navigating the same challenges.
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, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.
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 and aim to give support to all the family.
Please do get back to me if you need further help.
((hugs))
