Struggling with sisters diagnosis

Hi my younger sister was diagnosed last year with over cancer stage 2a. She's had hysterectomy then had have major bowel surgery. Has a blockage

 We nearly lost her then. She went through chemo. But now been told she has brca2 gene. Possibly looking at a mastectomy. I'm waiting on appointment to be tested too. I'm feeling so down and terrified for her and myself. I don't see her often as she lives a distance away. At times it's easy to forget how ill she was and still is. Then when he see her I feel so guilty. She's 55yrs and the baby of the family. I don't really have anyone to off load to properly.  

 

  • Hi mojo3,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat.

    I'm sorry to hear how you're feeling and no doubt your sister's diagnosis has had an impact on you both. It's important to acknowledge that none of this is anyone's fault, so please try not to feel guilty about the situation. Being told about the BRCA2 gene not only affects your sister but the rest of the family, so talking to your friends and family will be necessary in processing this news. Talking is an important way of offloading, but you can offload in other ways such as exercise, walking or through hobbies. There are some useful pages on our website around coping with cancer, including advise for family and friends, which I hope will be useful.

    You know your sister better than anyone and I'm sure she would want to keep your relationship as healthy and normal as possible and maintaining good communication could be a key to this.

    Best wishes to you and your sister with her ongoing treatment,

    Moderator Anastasia