Hi Everyone!
I'm looking for some suggestions that could maybe help my Dad who is currently very frustrated by not being able to do the things he is used to.
My dad will be 70 this year and was diagnosed with bowel cancer in November last year. He hasn't started chemo due to other health issues but the will hopefully be starting at the end of April (fingers crossed).
He's currently at home with my mum and I live about a 6 hour drive away which is challenging. My mum is doing an amazing job keeping on top off appointments, medication, cooking, cleaning and anything else you can think of.
Dad is extremely frustrated that he can't help with things and isn't as mobile. He doesn't have many hobbies or interests and is just watching TV in-between snoozes on the couch. I've suggested he watches a specific series of something on the TV that's engaging or reading but he doesn't seem interested. I feel that his frustration is making him feel quite low and I'm concerned about his mental health.
My partner and I are getting married later this year so I wondered if I could involve him in some things to do with that but also don't want to pressure him if he'd rather just rest.
They have an appointment with a Macmillan support group which I think will be really helpful but hoping to hear some other suggestions from the online community.
Hi ScottishBride and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your dad’s diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but reaching out to the community will give you the opportunity to ask questions and getting support from others who are on the ‘exact’ same journey.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you consider joining our supportive Bowel (colon and rectum) cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family members who are navigating the same journey.
When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting family and friends you may also benefit from joining our Family and friends support group where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
To join a group first click on the “Bold Links” I have created above then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)
You can then put up your own post when you’re ready by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
You can also scroll through other members posts and click “Reply” to get involved.
Our Support Line teams are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on freephone 0808 808 00 00, email or live webchat where you will find one of team there to help you out.
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 he has any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
Do get back to me if you need further help.
