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Dad has terminal cancer. How do you cope with this news?

AllyR
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Hi,

My 81 yr old dad has just been diagnosed with terminal cancer. He has Mesothelioma which is caused by exposure to asbestos. Prognosis is not good. I am completely devastated. I feel absolute sorrow and sadness that I will lose my dad. I am 51 yrs old. But I am more worried about my mum. I fear this will break her. Does anyone have coping suggestions? It is very easy to constantly focus on the dread of losing a loved one and because the prognosis is terminal, there is a constant feeling of hopelessness. 

Thanks,

Ally

Parents
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    I'm really really sorry. I'm...well.....remember us for what we were but please please celebrate our lives, don't mourn and don't look for answers why. Gosh I'm tired.....anyway, I read all the replies and they all give great advice. I like the memory box. You could design and build it with your dad or ask him what he would like in it and build/make it and that will help in so many ways. Lastly, choose with him a tree to plan in his name. For you it's a focus point and something to enjoy in the years to come. 

     

    Ally, I have asked my children and wife to carry on as normal but to involve me because I'm not dead yet. Involve him as normal. This is quality time so enjoy it.

     

    I have so much to say but I'm tired. Sorry, I have to sign off. I wish you well and enjoy and live in that continued celebration of life. 

Reply
  • Offline

    I'm really really sorry. I'm...well.....remember us for what we were but please please celebrate our lives, don't mourn and don't look for answers why. Gosh I'm tired.....anyway, I read all the replies and they all give great advice. I like the memory box. You could design and build it with your dad or ask him what he would like in it and build/make it and that will help in so many ways. Lastly, choose with him a tree to plan in his name. For you it's a focus point and something to enjoy in the years to come. 

     

    Ally, I have asked my children and wife to carry on as normal but to involve me because I'm not dead yet. Involve him as normal. This is quality time so enjoy it.

     

    I have so much to say but I'm tired. Sorry, I have to sign off. I wish you well and enjoy and live in that continued celebration of life. 

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