Caring

Hey Sweetcaroline, like often in these situations that others share like yourself, we don't have an answer or know what to say, but I just know from my own experience that just talking and sharing how you are feeling helps, and I have found such kindness and support on here. Try not to be hard on yourself, you are doing your best for someone special to you. It is so hard for you to see this, and you are going through it with her. It is often hard for those supporting as they feel lost as to know what they can do. Try to be kind to yourself and remember that you are supporting where you can as well as looking after your own family. Keep sharing. Sending love and huge hugs xxx

Thank you so much for your reply. I actually looked for the delete button after I had posted it (mixed emotions) but couldn't find it! Maybe I wasn't meant to, as yes, you are probably right talking does help. It's so hard even putting it into writing and when so many people are going through this. I'm just an emotional wreck tonight and everyone on here seems so supportive and understanding (read posts in the past). Thank you again. Sending love and hugs to you too xxx

Hi Sweetcaroline and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis and the journey you are all on.

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) so can I recommend you consider joining and posting in our dedicated Breast 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 Carers only support group where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.

To join a group 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.

It’s a challenging time for you so you may want to use the Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides 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.

Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.

Hey, Sweetcaroline, anytime you just feel like chatting just message, you are so right that it is good to talk. Thinking of you , love and hugs x ps...glad you posted and pressed the button, hope knowing you're not alone helps! It really has helped me x