Advice on how to help

Hi,

I’m looking for some advice of how to support my partner through his parents final stage of a battle with cancer. 

It’s all happened very quickly- 2 weeks ago he was at home complaining of a few different symptoms that we didn’t think much of, now he has stage 4 cancer and is due to be transferred to palliative care. 

I feel that I am doing my best to support him. He doesn’t want me to go to the hospital with him so I have to ask questions when he comes home which I try not to make feel like an interrogation.

Has anyone that’s lost a parent so quickly got any advice for me to help support him? I’d really appreciate it as I’ve never been in this position before and feel like I could help more. 

  • Hello Clare. 

    I'm sorry to hear about your partner's parent. It sounds as if it's been a difficult time for you all these past few weeks. 

    It can be a difficult juggling act to find that right balance between being there for someone whilst also giving them enough space to be able to process things but it sounds as if you're doing as much as you can to support him at this time. 

    Everyone copes with family illnesses in their own way. Just let him know that you are there to support him when he needs you. And in turn, we are here to support you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator