Hello all,
Like so many not in a million years did I think i'd be joining a forum such as this but im so pleased I have and that its available for all people.
My darling dad was diagnosed with Sarcoma this year, back in March and has been going through Chemotherapy. He's 70 years of age and apart from this lived an active, healthy life so a total shock to us all when cancer decided to make an appearance. Sadly we recently received news from his oncologist that the cancer has spread to his spine. We are not giving up and are exploring all options but im really struggling to process everything, I think I have for a long time now but determined to remain positive for him and my mum. We are an incredibly close family but my mum and sister have taken a completely approach to me and have somewhat closed off, we never talk about it, how we are feeling etc so I feel like im a fighting these feelings alone and often can feel quite scared and lonely. I have a close group of friends who are incredible but its not the same as having your family around you.
I am desperate to remain strong for dad and mum but often find myself wanting to scream out loud and cry for days on end! its an emotional time for sure!
Thanks so much for reading/listening.
Hi Skyblue2 and welcome to the Online Community although I am sorry to hear about your dad’s diagnosis. 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 is divided into support groups (discussion rooms) so can I suggest you consider joining our supportive Soft tissue sarcomas and Spinal cord tumours groups. These are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family on the same journey.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) link(s) I have created above. 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.
When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting someone you may also benefit from joining our general Family and friends group where you will 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.
We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
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.
All the very best.
