Hello everyone. I'm a 43 year old wife and mum, and I have two boys aged 10 and 17. I'm also a writer and illustrator.
My lovely dad has been diagnosed with terminal GIST stomach cancer which has spread to his liver. Dad is being amazing and I am trying to stay as positive as I can - I know that so many people don't get the chance to say goodbye and I'm determined to be there for mum and dad. We want to make lots of happy memories, but sometimes I do get really sad or angry and it's hard to think about losing him. I might be a grown up, but he's still my daddy and I love him more than words can say.
At the moment dad is still fairly healthy (if very tired) and not often in pain. I know this will change sometime. I think the most important thing at the moment for me is to be there for my family, but I don't always know the best way to do it. I was hoping that this could be somewhere I come for advice, and for a friendly virtual hug when it all gets a bit overwhelming. 

There are a few other challenging issues too, (my older son is transgender and one of the most courageous and amazing people I know, but obviously it can be hard seeing your child struggle when all you want to do as a mum is make it right). But he's doing brilliantly, and I'm much less anxious than I used to be, so I'm hoping I can be there for everyone in whatever way they need me to be. 

I'm trying to acknowledge when I'm feeling down without going down the 'poor old me' route, but I don't always get it right. I feel guilty when I make it about me, because I am healthy and blessed and this is about the awful thing my parents have to face, and not about me. I have to admit that sometimes I'm better at staying positive than others, but I do try. I've also found that a large glass of wine and a hug from hubby doesn't make the sadness go away, but it can be a help!