Hi Laura,

I am so sorry to hear about your mum. Sadly, cancer can do this. I’m sure that your mum is not looking forward to more surgery, but it will have to be done.

Cancer doesn’t just cause problems for patients, it affects the whole family.  You are doing well in staying positive for her, but don’t worry about crying when you are away from her. It is just too difficult to stay strong all the time and, crying is a great release valve for all those pent up feelings.

Most relatives feel helpless when caring for loved ones. There is so little that we can do to help out. Just being there for her is a great consolation for your mum. Try your best not to dwell on losing her, but on making her as comfortable as you can. Do nice things together and, try and create some pleasant memories.

You will probably go through a whole raft of emotions, but don’t worry – this is perfectly normal.

Do keep in touch and let us know how you are both getting on. We are always here to support each other.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Thank you for your kind words of support.  Having a cry has made me feel better and regain my strength.  My mum and I had a lovely afternoon today sitting in the sun and chatting and these are precious memories.  It won't be an easy road ahead, but we'll face it together and hopefully soon I will be posting that she is yet again cancer free. xx

Hi Laura,

You certainly had the ideal day today to sit out and chat. These are the memories that you will treasure, so make as many as you can together. By focussing on positives instead of negatives you will find the strength to see this through.

It will be a hard road ahead, but, between the two of you, you will get through. I nursed my mother for 12 years. She started off with breast cancer, but ended up with metastases in liver, lungs, brain and bones, so, sadly, I have had some experience of this.

I hope that your mum has some good news soon. I shall be thinking of you both.

Kind regards.

Jolamine xx