Recently diagnosed abdominal wall tumour, looking for tips on helping my teenage children cope

Hi BigbadBarry 

I'm very sorry to read of your diagnosis and the subsequent tests/scans required. I have had a different type of cancer so I hope you don't mind me replying to your post. By responding this will place it back at the top so that it may be seen by more members of the ovarian group.

I understand your concern for your teenage children. These booklets may be useful for you and can be read online. Just click on the links below

https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/stories-and-media/booklets/talking-to-children-and-teenagers-when-an-adult-has-cancer

https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/stories-and-media/booklets/a-guide-for-young-people-who-look-after-someone-with-cancer

The Macmillan helpline is also very useful and will give suggestions for support. This is the link to contact 

https://www.macmillan.org.uk/about-us/contact-us

I hope you get more replies and personal experiences. Best regards.

A x

Hi. 
I don’t have children your age, however when my grandchildren were told I followed up with a call to talk about the things we could still do ( playing board games etc) and what I probably wouldn’t be able to do (go to the trampoline park etc - phew!). I think your children may value discussing the things you think will stay the same (family meals or shared favourite tv programmes?) and what is unknown at the moment (next years holiday plans). Also perhaps ask them how much they want to know, how they think they could help when you don’t have the energy to be the parent you usually are. Also let them know that is ok to feel afraid at the moment and to talk about those anxieties (if not with you, someone else?). They may be afraid to raise anxieties with you, thinking you have enough to deal with and may feel reassured if you have given them ‘permission’ to raise it. 

I hope that helps?

Good luck