my partner has been diagnosed with rectal cancer stage 3-4, which has spread into some of her lymph nodes.

Hi, I’m new to the forum, my partner had been diagnosed with rectal cancer stage 3-4, which has spread into some of her lymph nodes.

She has her pre-op tomorrow prior to having a stoma bag fitted, after which she will undergo five and a half weeks of radiotherapy & also chemotherapy.

I fully appreciate that she feels that no matter how many family members & friends she has supporting her, it still feels a terribly lonely journey.

However I feel so inadequate in supporting her and being the buffer for all her expressions of anger and frustration.

Is this a common feeling amongst spouses of cancer sufferers and if so what is the coping mechanism for this?

Parents
  • Hello, I'm new here, my step mother has just been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, spread to her lungs. I'm still processing what that means. She's had a stoma fitted already. It's really hard to know what to do or say. I'm fighting my own emotions about it, trying to be organised and a solid rock of support. We only lost Dad a year ago, and that was a shock, plus Bowel cancer with mets to stomach and liver are what killed my Mothet before this wonderful lady came and fixed our family. I feel inadequate too, but know deep down, we are not. The fact you're on here shows how you care for her. I wish you love and luck. 

Reply
  • Hello, I'm new here, my step mother has just been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, spread to her lungs. I'm still processing what that means. She's had a stoma fitted already. It's really hard to know what to do or say. I'm fighting my own emotions about it, trying to be organised and a solid rock of support. We only lost Dad a year ago, and that was a shock, plus Bowel cancer with mets to stomach and liver are what killed my Mothet before this wonderful lady came and fixed our family. I feel inadequate too, but know deep down, we are not. The fact you're on here shows how you care for her. I wish you love and luck. 

Children
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