Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 1 reply
  • Views 157 views
  • Users 0 members are here

How do I tell my mum I have breast cancer?

Sparkle2day
Offline

I've been diagnosed with breast cancer and I'm having chemotherapy then surgery.  I've got my second chemo treatment this week.  

I still don't know how to tell my mum.  We lost my younger brother about 2 years ago and she is still struggling.  I just can't bring myself to tell her I'm now ill.  I don't think she will be able to cope if I tell her.  

I won't be able to see her as usual as it will be obvious I'm ill due to hair loss.  I just don't know what to do or say to her.  She doesn't really have any other support and she will just worry.  Does anyone have any advice?

Everyone else thinks I should tell her but I just don't think she'll be able to cope.

Hoping someone can help, thanks 

  • Hello Sparkle2day and welcome to Cancer Chat.

    I'm sorry to hear of your diagnosis and for the difficult situation you currently find yourself in. I can't begin to imagine how tough this must be for you, especially after the loss of your brother just 2 years earlier, but hopefully with the help and advice of our community you'll be able to find a way to tell you mum about your breast cancer.

    I hope this information I've found on telling people you have cancer and more specifically breast cancer will help but if you'd like to speak to one of our cancer nurses about this, or anything regarding your diagnosis and treatment, you can contact them on 0808 800 4040. Their phone lines are open Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and they'll do all they can to support you at this time.

    We're thinking of you Sparkle2day and wishing you all the best with your chemo next week.

    Best wishes to you both,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.