How do I support my partner?

Hello. My partner's father has had a recent diagnosis of cancer, he's been given 3-9 months and is getting weaker and weaker by the day. My partner doesn't have a relationship with his mother but is very close with his Dad. His father's diagnosis has broken his heart, I'm worried he's not coping. He's having anxiety attacks and isn't sleeping much I'm worried about how he will cope when his father does sadly pass. Obviously I'm doing my best to be as supportive as I can but I'm always worried about doing or saying the wrong thing. His father's such a lovely man it's heart breaking seeing how it's affecting everyone. Im spending as much time with my partner as I can with him while working a lot of overtime because my partner has come out of work, I've told him not to worry about finances and let me deal with it all. How do I support my partner through all of this? How do I support him when things get darker? I love him so much it's heartbreaking watching him loose someone he cherishes so much. 

  • Welcome to the forum Stacey although I'm sorry for the reason it has brought you here.

    It can be tough knowing what to do or say when a loved one is dealing with a parent's cancer diagnosis but it sounds like you are being a great comfort and support already and I'm sure your partner appreciates everything you are doing to help him at this difficult time.

    Many of our members have been in a similar situation with their partners and hopefully you will get to meet some of them soon when they post to provide you with their support and advice.

    Wishing you and your partner all the best, 

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator