Trying to support my dad

My dad had prostate cancer and survived. It took me so long to get over the distress I went through trying to suppress my emotions from him. The reason I did this was my mum did not want anyone to get upset, stopped my dad crying when he first told me and said 'we are not going to cry, we are going to beat this ect..' I sort of went into a bubble of denial and we as a family stopped talking about it. 

He had his prostate removed and has been clear every 6 months since. 

Recently he told me that a scan for a intestine infection showed a shadow on his pelvis and the results were sent to his oncologist. 

I am fit to burst. I feel selfish that I cant be scared and I want to be strong but I am so confused and need support. 

  • Hello and thanks for getting in touch

    I am sorry to hear your dad was treated for prostate cancer a while back and is now waiting to hear back from his oncologist about what may be happening now.

    People who are diagnosed with a cancer and their loved ones deal with such news in different ways, there really is no right way and it is important that you are honest about how you are now feeling and get the support you need.

    You may find it helpful to read our section for family and friends about taking care of yourself here. Talking and talking therapies such as counselling can be really helpful especially if there are back dated bottled up emotions that need bringing to the surface. This cancer chat forum is also a place people can share and get support from others who have been through similar situations to you.

    You are also welcome to call our nurse helpline on 0808 800 4040, we're here Monday-Friday 9-5.

    All the best

    Naomi