Mum just diagnosed with lukemia

As it says really, after a very quick referal and bone marrow/blood tests my mums phoned me to say she has an aggressive form of lukemia, has started on medication and chemo to follow asap. Without chemo she has 3-6 months to live. I've cried and now have gone into practical mode. Whats wrong with me, its like ive lost all emotion....my brother is devastated. I lost MIL to bowel cancer just 18 months ago and I was also the 'practical' one then. 

Normally im a very emotional person. I live quite far away so can only visit at weekends whereas my brother is round the corner and mum sees him all the time because of my niece.

Not sure what im posting for really ..... just to get it off my chest I guess.  

  • Hello Being Practical

    I'm sorry to hear about your Mum's recent diagnosis. Undoubtedly this will have been difficult news for you all to hear and it's natural that you may be experiencing different thoughts and emotions. 

    I think that everyone has different ways of coping with these kinds of life events and for some people, it may be going into "practical" mode is a way of coping and protecting yourself from some of the strong emotions that you might be experiencing. Try not to read too much into it at this point. The important thing now is that you're able to spend quality time with your Mum, whether that's via video or phone calls during the week or visits at the weekend, take each day at a time and enjoy each other's company. 

    If you want to chat things through with one of our nurses at any point you're most welcome to give them a call on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    Sending my best wishes to you and your Mum. 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator