How to help my dad?

Hello

My mother has been diagnosed with cancer for the fourth time. She is coping in her own way however I'm also concerned about my dad.

He is looking after her 24/7 at the moment and it was obvious today how down he is. He sounded terrible on the phone, kept telling me how he's finding it hard to cope. 

He thought she had passed away in the night which i belive is what really hit home, i feel useless. I need my dad to be strong so that my mum can be. I feel like i cant do anything to bring his spirts up. Im concerned about his own health.

 

Is there anyone i can talk to or that he can talk to for advise?

  • Hello Nick, 

    I'm so sorry to hear of your Mum and Dad's news; understandably it is hard for all of you. 

    We do have some information on our website here that I have linked for you regarding aspects of coping with cancer but I wonder if you might find it helpful to talk to someone. We have a team of nurses here at Cancer Research UK that you can call Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. Alternatively does your Mum have a clinical nurse specialist you can speak to or maybe give her GP a call. It sounds as if your Dad could possibly do with some support in caring for Mum at the moment and I'm sure that the GP could help to get this arranged. 

    Thinking of you and sending best wishes, 

    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator