Hello Fishrage

I'm so sorry to hear about your wife's diagnosis. It's obviously an incredibly difficult time for you all and understandable that you want to make sure your daughter is as well supported as she can be over the coming days, weeks, and months. 

Hopefully, if we've anyone who lives in your local area that can suggest support groups they will post to let you know but in the meantime, I wanted to check if your wife has any input from your local hospice? If so then please do speak with them as many hospices have specialist bereavement counselors that can help support a child pre-bereavement. Winston’s Wish provides emotional and practical bereavement support to children, young people and those who care for them. They also provide online resources. You can find out more at www.winstonswish.org You might also think about getting in touch with your local branch of Cruse to see if they are able to offer any support to your daughter at the moment. 

I'm presuming that your wife is relatively young so it may be worth getting in touch with a charity called Shine Cancer Support who provide support to those affected by cancer in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. They have a family support group which you may find helpful if your wife falls into that age category. Alternatively, you could call your nearest Maggie's centre. They're able to provide telephone advice and support which may be helpful for you if you're not able to travel to the centre. 

I know that with the schools breaking up for Christmas the timing isn't great but do speak to your daughter's school when they go back in January to see what counselling support may be available from them as well. Many schools have independent counsellors who visit regularly so it may be worth checking this out. 

Finally, I wanted to let you know that you are always welcome to ring our team of nurses to talk to them for some advice and support. They're available Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040.  

Undoubtedly this is a difficult time for you all Fishrage. Please know that we're here to support you as much as we can. You're not alone. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator