I don't know what to expect and need some help

  • 6 replies
  • 15 subscribers
  • 823 views

My brother has been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and that unfortunately there is nothing the Drs can do for him. He has been told that he could only have months left. He is 56 and lives with our elderly father. I live 60 miles away, work full time and have a family of my own to consider, however I want to be there for my brother and father. I just don't know what to expect. He has lost a lot of weight in the last couple of months, he is struggling to breath and not very forthcoming with information, he doesn't always ask the questions I would ask. He has already planned his funeral and we are slowly getting his financial affairs in order. I have lots of friends around me for support but I feel I need more by someone or group going through the same. 

  • This amazing forum is full of people going through the same or similar. You are in the right place. How is your dad coping in all this? 

  • HI

    a warm welcome to the online community. So sorry to hear about all you and your family are going through. Life's cruel.

    I'm supporting my husband through his stage 4 brain tumour journey so I'm not familiar with the ins and outs of lung cancer. There is a dedicated group for that within the community that you might want to explore Lung cancer forum - Macmillan Online Community. You might also want to explore Carers only forum - Macmillan Online Community I've personally drawn a lot of support from that group.

    The online community is  safe and supportive space so please reach out anytime. There's always someone about to listen, to hold your hand and to offer a virtual hug when its needed. You're  not alone. We've got you.

    It’s always good to talk so please remember that you can also call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, emotional support, benefit and financial guidance or just a listening ear.

    There's also a wealth of information on the main website. Here's the link to a section that I think might help here Supporting someone | Macmillan Cancer Support

    I hope some of this has been helpful. 

    Please make sure you take care of your wee self here too. This is an emotional rollercoaster ride. Taking "me time" isn't selfish- its essential to help you keep your batteries charged so please take whatever support your friends are offering. Even a walk round the block or 10 minutes with a coffee and a book can help.

    For now I'm sending you a huge virtual hug and lots of positive energy. Stay strong.

    love n hugs

    Wee Me xx

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

  • Dad seems to be ok, but he is a bit like me and outwardly he is ok but breaking up inside. He doesn't say much. 

  • Thank you very much, I will take a look at the other forums you have suggested. I have just come back from a mad dash to his area as this morning he struggled to get off the toilet and ended up falling, an ambulance was called and he was taken to hospital with a suspected heart attack. He didn't have one but he is in the cardiac ward. 

  • Just thought I would say hello but I don't know if I have any helpful advice. My 36 year old sister was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer 18 months ago. I live about 3 hours away with my young family so it can be very difficult not being there.

  • Hi, just wanted to reach out say hi, you're not alone.   I'm in a similar situation - my dad has been diagnosed with bladder cancer and is received palliative radiotherapy. Just starting down this journey too. 

    Keep strong, look after yourself physically and mentally and keep posting.