Supporting my mum through her cancer treatment

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Hi

just wanted to know if anyone had any suggestions on how to support a parent through breast cancer. My mum has recently had a mastectomy. I am her sole carer as well as working full time and looking after my family. 
I have been finding the emotions it brings incredibly difficult to deal with myself - not wanting to pass any of my worries onto her and ensuring she feels safe and reassured throughout this. 
Does anyone have any advice or ideas of how I can deal with this and my emotions so I can keep being strong for her through this. 

  • Hi YellowRose74, It sounds to me you already have it under control. You are obviously a kind caring person who only wants the best for her mother, she is already in the best of hands. No one can find it easy to control their emotions at times like these, we all say and do things that will worry us later. There is no book out there to tell us how to feel. I know what is like when your emotions are all over the place and you are worried and stressed about a loved one. Try to take time out for yourself, meet friends for a catch up, just go for a walk, time on your own and time  with your family is very important. Please try not to take on too much as you will be poorly too, Your emotions will be all over the place its to be expected, try to take each day as it comes. You are working full time and have a family to care for too, accept as much help that is offered to you. This will get better fot you, you just need time to ajust. I wish both your mom and yourself all the best Dawn x

  • Hi, sorry you are going through a rough time at the moment.  I supported my mum and dad when my dad was ill whilst looking after my family and working full time.  I used a few drops on my tongue of rescue remedy when I was feeling very emotional.  It kept me going and staying strong.  I wish you all the best xx

  • Thank you for the advice. Much appreciated 

  • I hope you dad is ok and thank you 

  • Hi, it must be difficult t balance everything going on.  There is a specific “friends and family” group (Link here) that you might find useful as well as this forum.

    When I was undergoing treatment I was grateful for practical support (cooking, housework etc) and my advice would be to never say no to anyone offering anything.

    But please try not to forget to look after yourself too.  The lovely people here at Macmillan are at the end of the phone for a chat with any support you or your mum might need and you can call them on 0800 808 0000. Best wishes 

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  • Thank you. I will share the support info with her. And have a look at the Link.