Hi everyone. My sister who is 48 has been told she has cancer. A large mass was discovered across her chest. She has had an echocardiogram, biopsy planned this week, brain mri and pet scan! This has totally floored my family. I'm trying to be so strong for her and my parents whilst she goes through this process but I feel broken, overwhelmed with negativity that she is going to die and I don't even know where to begin to support her because she is so very scared... any advice greatly appreciated because I don't think I have ever felt so lost and empty as I do right now...
Hi TraceyB74eb4635 and a warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but so sorry to hear about your sisters ongoing 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 or cancer support challenges can help a lot.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms)……… so once your sisters cancer is actually identified you can have a look through this link……
……. where you will find all our dedicated cancer support groups listed.
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.
As for the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your sister, your family and indeed yourself you may benefit from joining and posting in our……..
Family and Friends… That I see you have joined
Carers only…. That I see you have joined
Supporting someone with incurable cancer (If this is applicable)
……support groups where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
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.
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 cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/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 providing support for all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
