Sister who won't talk to me

Hello,

my younger sister had breast cancer 22 years' ago but thrived and survived - she ran marathons! But now she has secondary cancers throughout her body. Her blood count is so low that she now can't receive the last chance chemo.

There are three siblings - me, my brother and my sister - in that order.

We feel that she has pushed both of us out of her life: she doesn't talk to us nor engage in any other way. We don't know why or what's happening, what her condition is or the prognosis.

Everything I offer to do seems to be the 'wrong' thing - I can't do the right thing but I don't know what the right thing is anymore. The boundaries and assistance seems to keep changing week by week, day by day.

I feel helpless... guilty, usless and not a Good Sister.

R

 

  • Hello Ref

    I was sorry to read the news about your sister. I would imagine that this is a particularly difficult time for you all. 

    It's important to remember that people deal with this kind of news in different ways. Some people will push away those who they are closest too. It could be for many different reasons but try not to take this personally. I'm sure that your sister doesn't intend that you should feel upset or helpless by her actions. 

    As you say it can be difficult to know what to do for the best when the boundaries are changing all the time. Perhaps don't worry so much about "doing the right thing" but just continue to let your sister know that you are there to support her. 

    If you think it would help you to talk things through with one of our team of nurses your welcome to call them. They're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator