Hi all. Not sure where to start or what I’m asking. My dad has been diagnosed with stage 4 small cell lung cancer which has spread to his thoracic spine. He’s in so much pain which the gp has been trying to control with zomorph and pregabalin but it’s not helping much. Whilst they may be able to offer chemo to help with the pain they can’t treat his cancer and have basically told us he only has months. I just don’t know where to start with processing this. I have two young children who adore him and I can’t even bare the thought of him not being part of their lives. Or mine. And I’m devastated for mum who will lose her husband of 45 years. Grateful to have had Christmas with him. Can’t even think what the next few weeks will hold. Just don’t know how to deal with this at all. My head is all over the place. Trying to get through the day one hour at a time. Can anyone offer any advice? Xxxx
Hi Louisa, sorry to hear what your family are going through, it is something similar in my world. (my husband is the one that's ill, we have two early twenties children and have been together 42 years). I can only say this, being supportive and strong is great but don't be afraid to let others see that you are hurting too. Try to set aside (not easy) little pieces of me time, it does help if you can read or listen to music or what ever is your thing just to switch off. Try to build memories, see if there are things your Dad would like to do and your Mum. If anyone offers help take it, if you have someone close to talk to do. If not ask if you can get some help and support through GP. I have recently had two meetings for emotional support that came via our local hospice team. At the time i did not think it helpful but it has enabled me to get my head a little clearer. I send my sincere best wishes to you and all your family.
Thank you for sharing your story with me Mabelmum. I’m so sorry to hear what’s going on for you. You are right about trying to take time away for me. My husband is brilliant and I’m trying not to let my children (3 and 18mo) see me upset. Easier said than done! I will definitely take any offers of help. Especially anyone that can help with my boys so I can spend time with them. I don’t think mum and dad are accepting the diagnosis very well which is understandable. It’s all come quite out of the blue. Dad keeps saying he’s got to get right because we have a family holiday booked all together for June for my mums 70th. Knowing he’s unlikely to be here for it is devastating but I can’t take his optimism away. Xxx
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