Losing Mum and Dad

Hi All, 

I'm new, and feeling totally lost tonight. My dear mum was diagnosed with ovarian cancer 2 years ago, and has fought long and hard.  In October of this year, she was also diagnosed with a fistula, which in her own words, has caused her much more distress and upset and pain than the cancer itself had up to that point. 

She deteriorated fairly rapidly between then and December, and to cut a long story short, we called an ambulance for her on the evening of 12th December. She spent a week in hospital, but was then moved to a nearby hospice, where she has since remained all through Christmas, and is still there.  I cannot see that she will ever come home, the deterioration seems to be by the day now, the past two days I have struggled to hold it together. I just cant bear to see her like, disorientated, confused. I know it is the medication, and of course I would rather her be pain-free, but I miss her so much. I know she is still here, but I feel I've lost her already. The doctor at the hospice said today that it was impossible to tell whether she had weeks or days left, but that she was showing signs of end of life. 

To top it off, my dad also has advanced cancer of the oesophagus, which has spread to his lungs and bones, and I know that in a few months possibly, I will have to experience it all again. I feel so helpless. 

I am trying to hold it all together for the sake of my 5 year old, and because 'being normal' for a little while, helps me get through, but then something will trigger the tears, and I cant stop, and dont know what to do.  

x

 

  • Hi Shannon, what can I say. I am so sorry mum is going downhill so quickly. As you say the pain is being managed which is so important but the meds can cause confusion. I am sure mum is aware you are near and can hear everything you say even though may not be able to respond verbally. Hearing is one of the last senses to go so by talking to her she will be reassured you are there. Your dads ill health is understandably a pressure on you too. This forum has a lot of very caring people on it who are able and willing to listen to you vent. One lovely lady in particular has been through what you are going through and may be able to offer some words of comfort. It is important for you to look after yourself too, your wellbeing is also of great importance. Best wishes kathy
  • Your message is so moving to me, Shannon. All I want to do is give you a big hug. I don't know why life is like this - pushing us to the limit. We will be placing a lit candle in our front window for you all - to give you light at this time. You must tell your mum what you need to tell her. Our thoughts are with you all at this particular time. x

  • Hi Shannon,

    I am so sorry to read about the emotional turmoil you are suffering. I can truely understand why you keep bursting into tears, but please Shannon, do not fell bad about this for crying is just natures own way of relieving the stress that biulds up, just like a safety valve. Much better to let it out than bottle it up.

    I am pleased that Kathy and Brighteyes have both responded for they are very kind and caring people who despite having problems themselfes still find time to offer help and support to others which is what this forum is so good at.

    Sending kind thoughts your way, Brian.

  • Thank you so much for the lovely replys. Today has been a funny kind of day... I have had my mind taken off of it a little by my boisterous 5 year old, and yet I also felt a strange sense of peace after telling mum how much I loved her today, and she said the same to me. I'm so glad that happened, and I will continue to tell her every day. 

    I returned again later on, and she was asleep, and remained asleep for the duration of my visit, and I have a feeling a dread that we turned another corner away from me today, which upsets me greatly. 

    I love my dad so much and worry about him. He lives near, but is so stubborn. Had a chat today... he told me that when he doesnt want to talk, he means it, but not to take it personally. I will try to remember that, but god, it's hard! 

    Thanks again for taking the time to reply. xx

  • Hi Shannon,

    I am glad that you told your mother you loved her. When my grandmother was ill and dying fron brest cancer, I deeply regret I never told her how much I loved her. I know people told me she knew but it still grieves me that I never told her. I can understand what your father means in a way, as most men i have known who have cancer like to keep some semblance of normality in there lives and to not let cancer take over.

    It must be so difficult for you with both of them suffering. I would imagine that your son has helped you cope over the Christmas period. Please keep us updated as and when you can, best wishes, Brian.

  • Hi Shannon, so good the little one is keeping you occupied. They do make us smile. So pleased you have expressed your love for mum. I am sure she knows, but it is good to voice it. Is dad not wanting to talk at all or just about certain subjects? I guess we all cope in different ways. We are here for you as "virtual " friends. Some have walked the path you are walking but we have all been impacted by this disease in some way. We understand and are here for you. You are not alone Shannon. Hugs Kathy.
  • Hi All, 

    I'm sorry it's been a while since I posted. Sadly, mum passed away on the 4th January after a long fight. The only way I can describe it now is 'empty'. It was so distressing to see her at the hospice the way she was, she was in a semi-coma like state for 4 days, and didnt speak for all that time. I cried so much then. Knowing she is no longer suffering or in pain, helps me a little, but I am scared that I might forget her voice? 

    The hospice staff were all wonderful, and I cant praise them enough for the care they gave her in her last two weeks with us, but it hurts so much to think that she went in there able to laugh, joke, take pleasure in seeing her grandson, and two weeks later, she is gone. 

    Now I have to concentrate on looking after my Dad. He is doing ok for now. 

    Thank you for the support you gave me when I was feeling so low. This forum is a wonderful place, and when the fog has cleared, I hope to be able to give the same support to others. 

    x

  • Dear Shannon,

    I have only just come across your thread and I wanted to reply to say that I am so sorry for your loss and all that you are currently going through.  I wish I could say something to make you feel a little better but I know that is impossible.  I lost my Mum and Dad to cancer within 5 months in 2013 and understand a little of how heartbroken and terrified you must be feeling. You said in your post you are scared you will forget your Mum's voice and I wanted to tell you that you won't; your Mum will live on in your heart forever.

    You have been and are currently still going through a terrible time, be kind to yourself; it is perfectly natural to be crying all the time.  For me personally it has taken a long time to come to term with my losses.  Having to witness cancer in a loved one takes it's toll on you, and having to witness it twice is very hard.  I found this forum a great help and I'm glad you are finding the same.  Take care and let me know how you are doing.  Hope23 x

  • Hi Hope, I am so pleased you have come across Shannon's thread. You were the only person I was aware of on the forum who knew what Shannon is going through from your own personal experience. If only we had pm could have alerted you earlier. Best wishes, Kathy xx
  • Hi Kathy,  I'm really glad I found Shannon's post, I hope I can be of some help to her at this terrible time.

    Hope you are doing OK, the lack of PM is a big disadvantage to the new look site.  Take care. Hope x