I lost my mum in may to lung cancer and im 23

My mum died from lung cancer on may 29th. She had been diagnosed in feb 2019, she was given 2 months to live but was cleared in july that year only to be struck with encephalitis (severe memory loss and reduced physical capacity). The cancer came back and she went into hospital on May 13th and she spent her last week in a hospice.

 

As someone who was only graduating uni and starting a new job, the last 18 months have been unbearable. To lose my mums mind but to still have her physically with us was so hard, but her death during lockdown has been devastating for myself and my siblings (brother and sister) . We had such a close relationship and i dont get on with my dad unfortunately.

 

I feel like I'm at my lowest point even though its been 2 months and i just dont know where to look or do. This may be bearable in normal times, but im so restricted to what ive been able to do by coronavirus.

 

Ive found myself questioning my job and my relationship with my long term girlfriend and its become overwhelming. 

 

Any words of wisdom or encouragement would be greatly appreciated x

  • Hi Sam. I lost my mum 5 weeks ago and note that your loss is really raw and recent. To witness your mum suffer as you did must have been hell. And a pandemic at the same time with all that brings is almost inconceivable. Give yourself the space to acknowledge the enormity of what's happened and how significant this is to you. 
    Ive also questioned my whole life. I'm a nurse who was looking at delivery jobs the other day and looking at houses because I feel I need to move and change everything when in reality I need stability and familiarity.  There may be changes you need to make in your life but now is not the time, unless your in a situation that is so damaging that it's doing you harm. Be patient with yourself and know you are doing your very best under the circumstances. Know the tsunami ofvemotiins you are feeling are normal. Talk to someone on one of the bereavement helplines. It can be good to have feedback from an outside source.

     

    Please take the best care of yourself.