Hi all, newbie here.
My mum (79) has recently been diagnosed, we have a meeting next week for staging/a plan. While I am thankful for the speed, it's all happened so quickly, from suspected bowel cancer which was clear, lung cancer was picked up, it's been a month of phone calls/appointments.
Mum is in complete denial about it all, her coping strategy I guess. I am more of a realist, with some medical knowledge.
I am aware how utterly selfish I sound, but I am really struggling, physically and mentally. There is no other family, no siblings/dad/extended. I work FT in a mentally demanding role, and a single mum. The practicalities of appointments has been tough, but we managed. I am naturally a practical person/a planner. Now I am coming to the realisation, the journey is only just beginning. Like I say, in terms of the practical side, as well as the realisation my mum is ill, and I will lose her one day. I feel such an awful person with my feelings. Obviously I will do anything for my mum, and I will keep strong when in front of her at all times.
Sorry for the rambling, I guess it's good to get feelings out with people who may understand.
Hello there,
I’m sorry the news hasn’t been good but hopefully treatment is on the way. I am a 72 year old Gran who was diagnosed with lung cancer 2.5 years ago. I felt that they didn’t need me worrying on to them. It’s not that I didn’t tell them what was happening but I didn’t want my upset to make it more difficult for them. Just show your mum how much you love and appreciate her. This may go along way towards helping her.
You are definitely not being selfish but concerned about loosing your Mum and how you are going to manage if she needs help. I don’t know how old your child/children are but if they are old enough at least let them know what is happening. That will be picking up how stressed you feel, even if you don’t discuss it with them. Children can be very astute.
It’s a very worrying time but maybe knowing the next steps will be helpful. Can I suggest you talk to a MacMillan nurse about your feelings. I even talked to the Samaritans to relieve my feelings. Even that can be very helpful.
I also told my grandchildren who see me every week what was going on with my health. At 10, they are much better knowing IMO, than hearing whispers. It just creates extra stress for them. It was also my opportunity to mention not smoking or vaping.
I’m Silly me, I pressed go before thinking! I’m wishing you all your family the best. Please do write back if you need.
With love Daisy xxx
Thank you, that's helpful. I'm sure she doesn't want to project her worry onto me, but I am concerned she's not fully understanding things.
My daughter is 11, I will tell her, but I guess I wanted to wait until we know a plan/next steps to make it sound better than just a diagnosis.
Thank you for your time x
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