I Feel So Alone

Hello, I don't really know where else to turn. My mum is dying in a hospice and I feel so alone. She's my last living parent. I'm 29yo but single, and I know her biggest concern is that she's leaving me behind on my own. The relief she now feels because I've told her all is well.

But it's not. Im completely failing at work. I spend my lunchtimes alone crying in my car and much of the night crying at home alone. But that's no what I tell mum. I tell her im doing brilliantly, even naming some of the colleagues and making up happy stories of my time with them, when in reality, not a single one of them like me. 

Im struggling financially but I tell mum im doing so well, saving up for a deposit for my house. 

I talk to her about how her dog has adjusted to life with me and is having the time of his life, when in reality he's been very unwell and the vet said it would be kinder to euthanise him as he hasn't responded to treatment. I love this dog so much, I don't know how I'm going to cope when mum passes without him.

 

I could go on and on. I know I shouldn't lie, but my mum is relieved and reassured and subsequently, she seems to at peace. She's passing away thinking her only child is secure, successful and happy. 

My heart is shattering more and more as I watch her fade away a little more everyday. Yet selfishly, there is nothing more in the world to breakdown and unload everything that is crushing me onto her and having her hold me and tell me it will be okay. Of course, I will never do this, but everything has become unbearable.

Is there anyone out there in a similar situation? I feel so alone.

 

  • Hi CloPortia 

    First of all I'm so sorry about your Mum. My Mum passed away nearly a year ago in a hospice so I can relate to so much of what you say, wanting to reassure them that you're ok to give them some comfort and peace. It's a heavy burden and extra pressure in amongst so much sadness and heartache.
     

    In amongst all that just know that you're not alone. There are lots of people on here who sadly know all too well what you are going through and hopefully you'll receive other responses. It's a place I've checked in many times over the last year and it's given me real comfort knowing I'm not the only one feeling the way I do and hopefully it will give you that too. 
     

    It sounds like you have a lot going on which is totally overwhelming. Do you have any other support like friends or extended family you can talk to? You can phone the MacMillan helpline and they're so lovely and always happy to talk if you feel like you can't talk to anyone else. 
     

    Do the hospice offer any counselling at all? The one my Mum was in offered some free sessions and I found it really helpful. Also if you have a Maggies centre near you i would really recommend going in. I popped in to one when I was feeling a bit lost one day and they made me a cuppa and we had a chat and it helped just to unload a bit. 
     

    What you're going through is so so tough but you will get through it, and even learn to live with it in time which right now sounds impossible I know (and I'm still very much learning myself)' It just sounds like you could do with some extra support which anyone in your position would. You might be surprised at how people want to help - they just don't always know how to. Reach out and hopefully it will to make things a little lighter even though I know it won't take your pain away. 
     

    Take care of yourself as best you can and hope your Mum is comfortable x

  • I'm so sorry to read of your situation. My mum is also dying from oesophageal cancer.  Doctors have said she isn't suitable for any kind of treatment and in fact have made her worse by withdrawing meds she takes for other issues.  The support from the hospital is sadly lacking.

    I completely understand how you are feeling alone and I think despite me having a brother, a husband, two kids and caring colleagues I still feel wholly alone.  Some days I actually achieve nothing at work too.  Think of this as a temporary state though, it's not forever - the thought of this breaks me though too as it means she won't be here.  But in essence you will have time to focus on you again at some point.  I wouldn't tell her how things are but I would speak to your workplace and explain what's going on, take carer's leave if you can.  Be kind to yourself.  I'm sure your colleagues do like you too it's just you are in a dark place at the moment.  Much love to you. X