Hi everyone.
My mum was diagnosed with locally advanced pancreatic cancer last December. She managed the majority of her chemo like a trooper. She finished her chemo in July. Mum lost her appetite about June time and in August was put on supplements. That is all she has had since - she refuses to eat coming up with one excuse after another. She's also started lying to us which isn't helping, along with having chemo-brain, which isn't improving. We've spoken to her, the doctors have and she's not listening, she knows best. We take her to her appointments but are not allowed to ask questions unless we ask her first. She has now said it is up to her what she shares with me and my sister.
Although I agree with her, it's not helpful with her forgetful-ness. Only want the best for her but we're going to lose her sooner if she doesn't help herself. I'm really struggling with how to help or where to turn.
Jane
Hi Jane and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your mum's 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 and to ask your questions.
The Community is divided into support groups (discussion rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our supportive Pancreatic cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis and treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family members who are navigating the same journey.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) link 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 family you may also benefit from joining our general Family and friends and Carers only support groups (both I see you have joined. These groups is a place to connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
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.
