Hi all. I find myself here late at night a week after my Dad died after a short and surprising illness, which has since been confirmed as a liver cancer. He wasn't 100% for the last few months but he went into hospital recently with bloods that were off, and 3 weeks later he was gone. He is the first parent I've lost out of him and Mum and whilst I've been up and down all week, I think the reality is sinking in that he isn't coming back. I also want to be able to support Mum the best way I can too. However, I feel like I'm going to go mad, or be changed forever and never get over it. I'm terrified that if I don't deal with it in the best way, I'll lose myself forever and I know that's the last thing Dad would want. But I also know there isn't a 'best way' and everyone is different. The funeral is in a couple of weeks and I'm hoping that will be a big step in accepting it more. I'm hoping to read the eulogy as I really want to do Dad proud, but am also worried sick about completely falling apart. I wish there was a handbook to help you navigate grief.
Hi Ekoturner and a very warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but I am so sorry to hear about your dad, my sincere condolences.
This is such a challenging and stressful time for you but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same’ journey can help a lot.
This New to Community area is like our reception desk where we look 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 I do see that you have already joined our supportive..
Bereaved Family and Friends Support Group.
……. support group.
This group is a safe place to talk to others who navigating this challenging time, to ask questions and get support from other family members.
To connect with the group click on the “Bold Italic Link” I have created above …… then once the group page opens 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.
There is quite a lot of information in What to do after someone dies and many hospitals have bereavement services who may be able to offer support.
The Macmillan Support Line is open between 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00…… this service provides practical information, emotional support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
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 ((hugs))
No need to delete it from this area….. you may well still pick up reply's from other new members looking for the same support and they can see my reply and follow the links but may want to connect with you ((hugs))
