Everything happening so fast

Hi

Another sleepness night, tossing and turning feeling scared to close my eyes... why?

A month ago my dearest dad was diagnosed with stomach cancer, absolutely no signs apart from just having trouble to swallow.  Next Thursday he is seeing someone about chemo, the consultant is then talking about operations.

I've been so strict and not searched the Internet but tonight I'm finding it all extra hard....why?

Because my dad has lost his appetite, its so painful to watch him.  He is a good man, very fit and healthy in his 80s and still works.  He lives life to the maximum with a loving family around him.  His grandchildren are his life.  Today he just sat there, looking like a very old man, I couldn't even get him to smile today.. yes I know everyone has their off days but never my dad.  I feel like im glueing the whole family together, being there for my mum and sister.  I have to focus on keeping the house running, while making sure everyone is OK.  I will deal with my emotions another day.

I've learnt over these couple weeks Cancer does not just affect the person but also those around them. It's devastating and heart breaking.

I just wanted to find out how does it get easier? Does it? What does the future hold?

Thank you

  • Hi 
    So sorry to hear that you're going through such a tough time. You're right, the cancer has far reaching effects on the whole family. I've been on both sides, I lost my Mom to cancer when I was very young and I've also had cancer myself.

    Try to stay away from Google. Any medical queries are best directed to the team looking after your Dad as Googling symptoms often just leads to more worry and unanswered questions. This forum is a great source of comfort and advice, but just remember that every person's cancer journey will be different. 
     

    Try not to read too much into your Dad's lack of appetite today. The fact that he didn't have many symptoms means this has probably come as quite a shock to him, it will take a while to process it all. He's bound to have good and bad days at the moment. 
     

    Although it's great that you're looking after everyone, it's important to take care of yourself too so you also need some support. Do you have anyone who's doing that? It's important that you have someone you can confide in, nobody will expect you to be ok all the time and burying your emotions isn't a good idea. 
     

    I don't know what the future holds, but the fact that your Dad's Consultant is talking about chemo and operations shows that they have a plan, there is hope.

    Try and get some sleep, here if you need a chat.

    Debs