I don’t know what I’m feeling - dad diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, mum is struggling. How can I support my parents?

My Dad has been recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in bowel, liver and lung. He’s starting treatment on Tuesday but it’s not a cure, it’s palliative care. 

My Dad is so stoic and very proud so has made it clear that only my Mum and his doctors will see him in the ‘bad moments’. I completely respect this but also happy to jump in if needed. 

I’m trying to be there for my Mum who is really struggling as you can imagine but I honestly don’t know what to say. It won’t get better and we’re all going to lose someone who we love and adore. 

I’m feeling very numb about it and not really sure why. I was expecting to be more ‘upset’ as that’s my usual go-to but I just feel numb. 

I’m thinking a lot but not about anything in particular. I’m just numb at everything. 

any tips on how I can support both my parents would be appreciated! Thank you 

Parents
  • I'm in a similar situation. My dad has terminal cancer and is getting weaker and losing weight by the day. My mum is basically his carer at the moment. I work 34hrs a week and have a young child so it's difficult to see them most nights apart from weekends. I can see it's breaking my mum but she is trying to be strong in front of my dad. 

    My dad has breakdowns in our company sometimes and I don't know what to say or do other than say don't give up! But at the same time I hate to see him suffer......

    It's soo hard..... I feel for you and your family and send lots of love and thoughts your way. Xxx 

Reply
  • I'm in a similar situation. My dad has terminal cancer and is getting weaker and losing weight by the day. My mum is basically his carer at the moment. I work 34hrs a week and have a young child so it's difficult to see them most nights apart from weekends. I can see it's breaking my mum but she is trying to be strong in front of my dad. 

    My dad has breakdowns in our company sometimes and I don't know what to say or do other than say don't give up! But at the same time I hate to see him suffer......

    It's soo hard..... I feel for you and your family and send lots of love and thoughts your way. Xxx 

Children
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