Terminal cancer support for families

RebekahR

Hi All,

My FIL has terminal cancer and only has weeks left. They won't tell us any more than that ... Whilst I am not immediate family I am finding it hard to get my head round. He's more of a father figure to me - better than my own father so it's hitting me. Just wondering where I can get support? As the time gets closer it's killing me inside more and more. Just want somewhere I can go to sound off to.

Thanks all!

hazyjo

Macmillan - although google 'cancer support' and your area and you may find something else nearby. There are local things and online support, so go with whichever suits you.

Been there, know the feeling

Jx

RebekahR

I was looking for online forums. All I can seem to find is stuff for carers or the one who has cancer. Maybe i'm just being blind. I can't attend any groups as I have a 1 and 4 year old. So any support needs to be remote. I just need something - anything!

Thank you for understanding.

Person_one

Call the Samaritans. Its not just for people who are suicidal, its for people like you having a tough time who need the ear of a good listener.

The number is 116 123, its there any time day or night.

Oh, and you can also text or email if you prefer:

http://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help-you/contact-us

hazyjo

This seems to fit the bill - but haven't opened any threads. It's support for families of those with cancer.

https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_experiences/being_a_relative_/discussions

Good luck.

Jx

just_trying

I looked after a neighbour who was passing away. He had no interest in McMillan nurses, he wanted who he knew around.

Just take it one day at a time, sending lots of love Xx.

ariarnia

RebekahR wrote: »

Hi All,

My FIL has terminal cancer and only has weeks left. They won't tell us any more than that ... Whilst I am not immediate family I am finding it hard to get my head round. He's more of a father figure to me - better than my own father so it's hitting me. Just wondering where I can get support? As the time gets closer it's killing me inside more and more. Just want somewhere I can go to sound off to.

Thanks all!

While you're always welcome to vent anonymously on the forums (there's a few very welcoming long running support threads in old style), I wonder if any of these might help?

http://www.supportline.org.uk/problems/cancer.php

It's a list of cancer support organisations; including help and support lines that can offer specific detail of what to expect or just listen as you need.

I agree with the other posters that both macmillan and the samaritans (who also operate an email service if that would be easier) are great.

There also might be someone at the hospital (a Chaplin perhaps, you don't have to be religious) who might be a comfort if you're struggling before or after a visit.

I know just walking into that room was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do and it's got to be even worse when you've got to 'keep it together' for the children and the rest of the family.

Wishing you strength at this horrible time.

A.

I_Love_comps

RebekahR wrote: »

I was looking for online forums. All I can seem to find is stuff for carers or the one who has cancer. Maybe i'm just being blind. I can't attend any groups as I have a 1 and 4 year old. So any support needs to be remote. I just need something - anything!

Thank you for understanding.

I do not know if you use Facebook, if you do I would suggest seeing if there is a closed group that deals with cancer.
Hope you find someone who can help.

rpc

Have you got a Maggie's Centre nearby?

KRB2725

I have unfortunately been through the same situation and understand how hard it is.

Does your FIL have any involvement with a hospice? The hospice will likely have family support staff that you can phone and chat with, we got fantastic support from the hospice even though my relative didn't actually go in to the hospice.

I also spoke with Macmillan on the phone, again, very understanding and helpful.

I'm sorry you are going through this.

hunters

rpc wrote: »

Have you got a Maggie's Centre nearby?

Maggie's Centre is also online with forums.