Hello, 

I am so sorry you are going through this. 

I am also 23 and my dad has a rare terminal cancer called a pheochromacytoma. He's been battling this for 2 and a half years and in that time I've been a part time carer. 

My best advice is search local 'young carer' groups, they are amazing and they can offer so much support during this time. 

Also be as honest as you can with work about your situation, at University I was given a lot of time off to handle situations and now my current employer is also very supportive!

Although it's hard to initially talk about things I've found it very helpful. Remember that the whole world doesn't need to be on your shoulders and asking for help is okay. 

The unknown is hard and frustrating but pull together as a family and make every moment count. 

Sending love x 

Hi popcorn, 

Really sorry to hear about your mum and how quickly she is deteriorating. 

It's scary how similar our situations are. I'm 22 and last month my mum was diagnosed with Secondary Breast Cancer which has spread to her bones, liver and lungs. My mum is also terminal and receiving palliative care. 

My mum has refused to find out her prognosis but has thankfully been given the option of hormone therapy. She has only just started this on Monday but hoping for the best in terms of minimal side effects. 

I'm also in a similar situation with work and I am also a part-time student. I have no advice how to cope, as I do not feel like I am, but you just really need to be there for your mum. She may make decisions that you do not agree with or understand but ultimately, it is her that has to deal with the pain and possible side effects every day. 

Try to make the most of whatever time you have left. I'm at a point where, although work are understanding, family comes first and I am just trying to be at home and spend as much time with her as I can. 

As I say, I don't really want to give advice but do seek support from other services. I have started counselling with a local hospice, referred through Macmillan and that is seeming to help thus far. Do not be ashamed to admit you are not coping, everyone deals with these situations differently. 

Hoping for the best for you and your family, and if you need anything, just reply or drop me a messge x