On tenterhooks waiting for a diagnosis

Hi all,

I've just joined as my 80 year old dad is undergoing tests for possible lung cancer.

He has COPD and heart issues already but his health has declined so much in the space of a few weeks, it seems as though there must be something else going on.

It's so hard not to fear the worst isn't it?

He is normally such a strong person, but this has destroyed him. He's gone from walking a mile a day and spending hours in the garden to being too exhausted to walk upstairs, in less than a month.

I just don't know how to help him and it's so hard trying to be strong for him and my mum.

I just needed to vent to people that will understand.

Thank you.

Susie

  • Hi Susan,

    I'm really sorry to hear yourself & your family are going through such a difficult time. 

    I can't say I've ever actually been through this, so I truly can't imagine how rotton it feels. But I do understand how anxiety can feel all consuming at times, making us feel utterly hopeless.

    I'm sure you just being around and willing to help is enough right now. Emotional support can be just as important and it sounds like you're already doing that. 

    I haven't dealt with a parent with cancer, but my dad became brain damaged a few years ago - so I think the closest to your situation I can relate to is seeing someone decline very quickly. It's so so hard and really can be heartbreaking. 

    I know you're trying to be strong for your mum & dad, but remember to maybe try and think of yourself sometimes too. 

    Apologies, I couldn't be much more help but thought I'd respond - just know you're not alone.

    Take care, Alice. X

  • Hi Alice,

    Thank you for your kind words.

    I am struggling with feeling helpless, and as though I should do more, so you saying that you think just being there is enough is definitely of some comfort.

    It's also comforting to have people to talk to who understand the range of emotions I'm going through.

    I really appreciate you taking the time to respond x

    Susie

  • Hey Susie!

    Hope you're doing okay today. 

    Feeling helpless is all too easy, but sometimes we have to think 'what else could I actually do right now?' I'm positive your mum and dad really just value knowing that you're there! You're clearly a very caring person to be feeling the way you are.

    I'm always happy to chat! Take care. X