Hi folks, I'm new here so just looking for somewhere to start really. My mum was diagnosed with primary lung cancer and secondary brain mets in August of last year. It was a complete bolt from the blue and has changed our lives.
Things started off pretty well with nothing much really changing, until around Christmas when things started to deteriorate. Mum's been on immunotherapy since September and has seen good results however at the beginning of February we were told on a Friday that she needed emergency brain surgery to 'debulk' the tumour. Off we went to hospital on the Sunday and 24 hours later she was in for majot brain surgery. The operation went well however unfortunately mum has been left with significant sight loss. The support we've received from the council etc has been great but not only are we now living with cancer, we're also dealing with having a partially sighted mum.
In addition to the surgery (which was successful) mum underwent radiotherapy targeted at the tumour sight around 6 weeks ago which has left her completely and utterly chronically fatigued. She's been pretty much housebound since around 4 weeks ago, has little to no appetite and is a shell of her former self. My sister and I spend any and all of our free time with my mum but both lead hectic lives with full time jobs and families of our own.
I suppose I'm not really asking for help but just wanted to share my story and to feel less alone in this battle.
Hi Jenbo and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type and support challenges can help a lot.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) and I do see you have already joined and posted in our Lung Cancer support group, you may also find our Brain, secondary tumours support group helpful as well.
These groups are safe places 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 Carers only support group where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
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 you have 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.
Thank you so much Mike, I really appreciate your reply 
