Can't sleep - lost both parents to cancer within a month

Hello. Not really sure what to say. I have just lost both my Dad & Mum to cancer. Dad died on 24th Feb and mum died 2 days ago - 20th March. Dad's funeral is on Monday and my Mum's is a week later. They were divorced a long time ago and both got remarried though I only have my stepdad left now. If I didn't have my partner I don't think I would be here right now.

  • Hi Clootie_Dumpling, 

    I noticed that no-one had replied to your post yet so I just wanted to stop by to welcome you and offer my heartfelt condolences for your losses.

    I can't begin to imagine how difficult this must be for you right now but I want you to know that you are not alone. [@Ohemgee]‍ and [@JasmineWhite]‍ have been in similar situations with their parents and hopefully they will be along soon to offer their support and advice.

    Coping with grief can be very tough so if you are finding things a bit difficult at the moment do be sure to seek out support. Your GP may be good to help you with your sleep problems and you may find bereavement counselling to be a great source of support at this time as well. 

    For now, try to take things a day a time and remember that your parents will always be watching over you.

    Kind regards, 

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • I am so sorry to hear of this awful start to the year :( sending you lots of hugs xxx

  • Hello Clootie_Dumpling,

    I’m not sure what to say. All that I know is what you are going through must be so heartbreaking and difficult. I’m so deeply sorry for your loss. When I read your post, it immediately made me cry. I’m so glad Steph mentioned me here. 

    To be honest, I don’t know how I’ve been coping these few months myself. To be brutally honest, I’ve been in denial most of the time and imagining that my parents are holiday. It’s probably not a healthy way to cope with it but I have signed up to bereavement counselling which I’ll be attending very soon. It might help to visit your GP so they know how you are and can guide you into the right area like mines did. 

    Anyway, what I really want to say is that I wish you nothing but happiness and I will pray that things get easier on you. I truly wish this for you. 

    Kind regards

    JW

  • Hi just wanted to say thank you for replying to my post and reaching out x

  • Hi Jasmine. Sorry I'm just reading your message properly. I know what you mean about thinking they are on holiday. Both my parents lived afar from me and I often think they are still their in their respective homes and that I might phone them etc. I'm a bit like you don't know how I've coped. Had 7 weeks off work and gave been back for 5 or 6. Seem to be OK while at work. Often cry still when I think about them though I suppose it's still very soon. Crying now (sorry). I think counselling will help but I'm not too sure how long to leave it.