Worrying about my dad with mum’s diagnosis

My mum has stage 4 GBM, and whilst we are all trying so hard to stay strong, I'm so worried about my dad. I can't imagine how he feels, it's so hard for all of us but he's essentially her carer, and does nothing that he wants to anymore, or does anything to relax. I'm so worried that he's putting on a brave front (I'm 23 and my brother is 26 so we're old enough to notice) and I just want him to have a bit of time to himself but he just won't. We all try and help and share out the duties but I know that he must think about times without mum, and the thought of him on his own in the house destroys me. I worry about dad nearly as much as mum! :(

  • Hello rachWBA, 

    How thoughtful of you to be so worried about your dad and it must be incredibly hard for him on a daily basis. As her carer, he must be finding it so difficult to take time for himself or do anything to relax. We have some information on our website on caring for the carer which includes some helpful tips to help your dad look after himself and this in turn will help him recharge his batteries and be there for your mum. Even if he feels like there isn't enough time to do everything, sometimes just taking a little break or a breather will give him the energy he needs to look after your mum. 

    I hope you will hear from others here who have been in a similar situation and that they will share their experiences with you of looking after a loved one with cancer. You are so very caring yourself and I am sure your dad appreciates your concern and the help and support you give him every day. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator