Coping with family dynamics

I know every family has its ups and downs and dealing with cancer is horrible 

Its so hard trying to stay strong for everyone when inside Im struggling myself.

how do others manage to keep family from falling apart whilst caring for loved ones 

  • I know how you feel. I put a brave face on for everyone. It's so hard when your struggling. I convinced myself and family that it would all be alright. Everyone had their own opinions and a a hundred questions. It was exhausting. I would go for a walk or to the gym and turn my phone off. It just me time to get myself together. I had a friend who understood and that helped. I hope things settle down for. You will get through this. I wish you all best.

  • Hello ChristineMac

    Thank you for your reply. Knowing someone gets it is really helpful

    although I wish you didnt have to go through it!

    Your self care tips are really good ( i need to do the phone off bit) I do try to go out the house when I can.

    been especially hard last month.

    I am finding my patience is running dry and I feel cross that family cannot adult! I think I have been too giving in the past and now I cant its not being taken well.

    I hope you have a good a day as your day can be 

    Thank you for your support

    RB

  • Hi Rhubarbdragon

    Many of us here find ourselves in your position. Whether we have cancer or are a loved one of someone with cancer. Over time the disease wears us out physically and emotionally leaving little energy for ourselves. While those around us expect us to continue giving out our energy to them in various ways whilst expecting us to carry on with our own lives as normal. There comes a point when we need to take a step back, be a little selfish and have some "me" time to preserve our own health and sanity letting others sort out their own lives.

    Ed

  • Hello Ed

    Thank you for your reply your words  resonate with me at the moment.

    I guess some folks just like to take and have no capacity to reciprocate

    So you are right I need to advocate for myself as well as hubbys needs 

    It is exhausting isnt it ? 

    Look after yourself  thanks again for your support 

    RB

  • It is very hard . I care for my brother. We were estranged for a large part of 40 years. Not that we fell out. His wife did not like me ( it felt like hate really) even though we never actually fell out she just didn't like me. She died last year and now I see my brother every week. We get on well now but their son aged 40 still is very distant and goes out the way if I'm at my brothers. My brother has been given 4-6 months to live. 

    I love my brother and want to do all I can for him and I support him with all his appointments for bloods, scans,Oncologist,chemo,etc. It's very very hard someday as I know I don't have long left with him.

    It's his birthday tomorrow,  he's 72 and his son and wife have booked a room for his LAST birthday.  I've not been invited

    Families.  Hard work 

    Xxx

  • Hello Sandmick

    It is indeed very very hard when some  family  make it difficult to have a relationship with your own siblings 

    I think you are doing the best you can by being there for your brother in all you are doing to support him in his appts et al. I am sure they appreciate your support and renewed closeness.

    Can you arrange if your brother is well enough a birthday activity for the two of you apologies if you are already on this page! No need to have only one birthday do in any circumstances!

    I hope you can keep spending quality time with him for as long as your brother has.

    Sending strength to you both

    Kindest wishes

    RB