I don't normally use anything like this but a few weeks ago my family found out my nanna has lung cancer and is not going to receive treatment. I understand why she is doing this, but when she does eventually pass away it will be mine and my siblings first time experiencing grief and I don't know how to handle it. I have depression and anxiety myself so it is really affecting me quite a lot.
Hello sr27
Welcome to the Online Community.
I am really sorry to hear that your nanna has lung cancer. It can feel really hard when a close family member has cancer. I remember when my mum was going through her treatment many years ago.
Although your nanna is not having any active treatment it does not mean that she will not be supported or given help to manage any effects. I will pop a link to some info that may help.
Palliative care for people living with cancer | Macmillan Cancer Support
This is all bound to affect you and your siblings and it will naturally be a difficult time for you all. From my own experiences of grief (and it can naturally affect people in different ways) there is the time while the person is still here that can also feel hard.
We do have the Support Line available if at any point you feel you need to talk to someone. They can also have a look to see if there is any support in your local area. I wonder if there is a Maggie's | Everyone's home of cancer care near you.
I found Home - Cruse Bereavement Support really helpful as well.
With having depression and anxiety yourself it may be worth letting your own GP know in case you need to have any extra support.
From personal experience although it is naturally a difficult time, talking to each other will help and also spending time with your nanna. Sometimes just doing normal things with her can help her feel supported. For us it was often things not connected to the cancer- watching something together, having a good gossip or a wander out in the fresh air.
Hope this helps. We are here if you need us
Jane
