Questions family want to ask but not Infront of the cancer member

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I want to know what to expect eg how long my mum might have left, what her deteriation is likely to be, what care she will need so I can work out if my dad can do it. I know it is different for everyone but an idea would be great.

My mum has stage 4 ovarian cancer in the uterus which has spread to her lungs. The doctor said just palliative care and at the moment she is too ill for chemo.

Up to a month ago she cared for her aunt so I want to know if an at home carer popping in could care for them both. I don't know if these are questions I can ask her Macmillan nurse. Can anyone advise me on this? 

My mum has told the nurse she can tell me anything.

Also if anyone has found out there loved ones life expectancy do you regret it?

  • Hi  and a very warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis. 

    A cancer diagnosis 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 or support challenges will 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) so can I recommend you join and post in our……

             Ovarian cancer

    ……. support group…… although I do see you have been responding to posts in the group already.

    This group is a 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 support journey.

    As for the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your mum and indeed yourself you may benefit from joining and posting in our……

    Carers only

    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 the groups 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.

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

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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