Hi Pinny63 and welcome to our forum.

I’m sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis and how much pressure you have been under. It sounds like an incredibly exhausting and emotional time, especially after everything you have been dealing with yourself as well.

Caring for someone you love at home can be very demanding, both physically and emotionally, and it is clear how much you care about your mum. It is also completely understandable that you reached a point where you needed to go home and rest. 

Many people caring for a parent say they feel torn between what their loved one wants and what they themselves can realistically manage. Having carers coming in, even if it feels difficult at first, can really help to share some of that responsibility, so that you are not carrying everything on your own.

You might find it helpful to look at this page from our website about coping as a family member or carer which includes practical advice and support for people in a similar situation.

If you feel you need to talk things through with someone who understands, our nurses are available on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

You’re very welcome to keep posting here whenever you need to let things out.

Best wishes to you and your mum,

Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator