How best to help my sister!

5 years ago my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer, she had the breast removed and then had a course of chemo and radio therapy. When she was diagnosed they said that there was a shadow on her kidney but they didn't seem worried and thought it was probably a cyst. 2 years on and it transpired that the shadow wasn't a cyst but cancer and she had to have a Kidney removed unfortunately it had spread into the base tissue.  She has since been on another drug regime to stop it from spreading but this has now stopped working and it has spread to her lungs and lymph nodes and has been told that they will try another drug regime but this will probaly only give her another 1 to 2 years, I am devastated! She is one of the most selfless, caring, wonderful and positive people I know and I amazed at her mental attitude that she is continuing to fight and not give up, my question is how can I support her more during this difficult time. She lives in Leicester and I live in Cornwall so we are miles apart, we speak on the telephone all the time but I just wonder if there is anything else I can do? 

  • Hi Keepitwheal,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. Firstly I'm so sorry to hear about what your sister is going through. I can only imagine how difficult this must be.

    It is easy to feel a little helpless in these situations but I'm sure she knows you are there for her, even if you're not physically close all the time. It's good to hear you speak often on the phone - I'm sure this is a big source of support in itself.

    The lockdown situation is making many things difficult, but hopefully as it eases further you can see her a bit more often, although I know it is still a long way.

    As I say, I expect you are already being a big support to her. Keep talking to her, and keeping things as normal as possible from time to time will I'm sure be a help too. Do also make sure you're looking after yourself too and speaking to others. That can include us on here and we are always here for support whenever you need it.

    Hopefully you'll receive further replies from others on the forum soon too.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator