Hi all,
Looking for advice because I'm not sure where to ask...
I am an only daughter to 2 unfortunately unwell parents, Dad has been living with cancer for a few years now with various treatment etc, he most recently has had radiotherapy for a brain lesion which was going ok but now he seems to be getting worse, he has had a recent scan to see what's happening and waiting results.
A few weeks ago my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer and has been undergoing intense chemotherapy and is really not coping. She has been looking after my dad but now is struggling with it.
I live 3-4 hours away depending on the day and have 2 very young children...
I'm genuinely not sure what I can / should be doing to help, we don't live there and I don't have the finances to get a place nearby to provide ongoing help and with my children we couldn't stay with them.
Can anyone help to know what my options are with getting them some help??
Hi Amy2024 and welcome to the Macmillan Community but so sorry to hear about your parents 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' support challenges can help you a lot.
This New to Community area is like our reception desk where we try to direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) and when it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your parents and indeed yourself you may benefit from joining and posting in our
.......and possibly our
Supporting someone with incurable cancer
……. support groups where you will connect with a wide range of members navigating the exact same support challenges.
To connect with a group click on the “Bold Italic Links” I have created above …… then once the group page opens click in the [ Black - Click to Join - Banner ] that appears at the bottom of the page and this will then confirm that you have joined the group.
When you are ready……. you can introduce yourself by putting up your very own post by clicking [ + Create new post] or [ + ] in the top right of the group page.
You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
It is an emotional time supporting family so you might find this Macmillan information your feelings when someone has cancer helpful as well as this link getting help with your emotions.
You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. 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 3 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 support all the family.
Please do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
