Hi everyone,
I have found out recently that my mum has been diagnosed with cancer. It’s been tough as she is a single mother and I feel like I have no one to talk to about it. I don’t know how to help her or support her. I feel helpless and alone and i’m sure she feels the same. What can i do to make this time easier for her?
Hi and a welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your mum’s cancer diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but I do hope you will find the Community a safe place to get support from family members who are navigating the same journey.
The Community is divided into support groups (discussion rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our general Family and friends and Carers only support groups where you will connect with others dealing with the same challenges while supporting family members.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) links 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.
The Macmillan Support Line is open from 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 where you can talk with someone about specific cancer and practical information, get emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just connect with 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.
Hi a123123
As TheHighlander says, I'm so sorry to hear about your mums diagnosis.
Sometimes these things can hit the people 'ouside' hard as there is nothing you can do.
Your mum is being treated and the specialists do that. This makes your role exactly what is care and support. The fact that you have reached out, as you are her support, shows you are doing the job perfectly.
You have each other. Just sometimes your mum will need the medical side and you can't help. You however will be on the help and support, which will help you immensely - you can then discuss how other people cope (seems the wrong word) and your mum can discuss treatment.
I hope this helps 
