Tongue Cancer stage 4 terminal

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Hi there, my dad was diagnosed with terminal stage 4 tongue cancer.  It’s spread to his throat muscles, tonsils and lymph nodes.  He lives on his own and I’m only 10min up the road so I feel I have taken on his role as his carer as such.  I am struggling mentally. Some days are good and others not so much.  I feel numb to a lot of things and I feel angry.  I’m easily agitated and I don’t know why.  He’s currently having chemo but it’s not agreeing with him.  Everything is in limbo and with Christmas coming around I cant quite work out my emotions.  Is it normal to feel this way? I feel like everything is consuming me.  I can’t seem to look into the future without intense anxiety and fear.  

  • OMG LillyL, of course everything you are feeling is very normal.  You are going to feel angry, afraid, lost, upset and every emotion in between.  But know that you aren't alone, with so many wonderful, caring, supportive and friendly people on here you will get the support you need and don't forget you can talk to a Macmillan counsellor in person on the phone (the number is 0808 808 00 00) and they will talk to you, guide you and give you any advice/support you need. I am so sorry to hear about your father, there are also support organisations/groups that you can join that will help you too.

    Take care, sending you big hugs.  Hazel xx

  • Hi Hazel, 

    Thankyou so much for your reply.  It has helped alot.   I will definitely look into the support groups as knowing others are in the same position as such and can relate it will help with navigating difficult emotions! Thanks so much x 

  • No thanks Necessary LillyL, don't forget to take care of yourself too, and don't forget to come on here and vent, moan, cry, laugh (yes, you are allowed to laugh too) with any of the lovely people here.  Thinking of you and your dad.  Take care.  Big Hugs, Hazel xx

  • Hello LillyL, 

    Of course it is completely normal how you are feeling, anyone would feel like that and we have all been there one way or another. Please lean on the MacMillan counselor as Hazel suggested and anyone else on here. I'm so sorry that your dad is going through this, it's bloody tough and you can only do your best. Seek support wherever you can and come here to rant or cry when you need to. Big hugs . Xx

  • Hi Lilly! I'm new here and I feel exactly the same as you. My head is like a tumble dryer with all my thoughts, emotions and fears for the future. You are not alone. I just wanted you to know that...sending hugs 

    Cleo x