It must have been really difficult, but you did it. We're all standing with you. love Emily ... View more

Hi Louise, such a hard situation! However, I think the best thing would be to be as honest as possible, as soon as possible. The longer you leave it, the harder it will become. If your situation allows, could you get all your sons together (maybe over dinner?) and tell them all one night? (It will save having to say it 4 times). Do they know you've seen a doctor at all? If not, start with that, then just tell them what unfolded. Allow time for the inevitable questions and expressions of disbelief (you may even have to repeat it a few times)but please don't put it off for too long. It will be difficult, but it has to be done. You could even post on here straight after, if you need a debrief. We'll all be here for you. love Emily ... View more

Hi Ranz, I'm so glad you've found this site. It's a really good place to come to vent, and be reminded that you're not alone. I remember when my husband was going through chemo, the one thing I wanted most was to vent to someone who could respond with 'I hate that part!' I found this site, and three years later I'm still benefitting. I will second Maddie's recommendation that you look after yourself as well (as impossible as that sounds!) It will keep you in the best condition to look after your family, and prevents storing up problems for later. Take it day by day (or sometimes hour by hour), and know that we're all cheering for you. xx ... View more

I can definitely say she will be better off because she has caring friends like you. But, as you rightly said, sometimes only those who have been through cancer can really understand. This website is a great resource, and there's also a group called The Warwick Cancer Foundation, which was specially set up to support people aged 25-40 who have been diagnosed with cancer. (www.twcf.org.au) TWCF have peer support programs, and social events for members, so it's not all online. I wish you and your friend good luck. love Emily ... View more

Thanks Bekee. My husband is doing really well. I'll be thinking of you both over the next week- let me know how it goes. love Emily ... View more

Hi Bekee, I can so relate to what you're saying. My husband went through chemo in 2011, and it was just awful. And he didn't even really get sick! His side effects were fatigue and nausea only. Plus, I'm a nurse, so it was not completely foreign to me- and it was still completely stressful, heartbreaking and overwhelming. So I can only imagine what you're going through. All I can tell you is you will get there, one minute at a time. Don't forget to look after yourself, too (impossible as that sounds)- leaving your needs behind will only store up problems for the future. And don't be afraid to take up any offers of practical help- any stressors you can get rid of will be good for everyone. Feel free to message me any time if you want to chat further. Sending you big warm gentle hugs, Emily ... View more

Hi Bekee, I can so relate to what you're saying. My husband went through chemo in 2011, and it was just awful. And he didn't even really get sick! His side effects were fatigue and nausea only. Plus, I'm a nurse, so it was not completely foreign to me- and it was still completely stressful, heartbreaking and overwhelming. So I can only imagine what you're going through. All I can tell you is you will get there, one minute at a time. Don't forget to look after yourself, too (impossible as that sounds)- leaving your needs behind will only store up problems for the future. And don't be afraid to take up any offers of practical help- any stressors you can get rid of will be good for everyone. Feel free to message me any time if you want to chat further. Sending you big warm gentle hugs, Emily ... View more

It it absolutely normal to feel numb. You will come across your grief at the right time, and, when you do, you will handle it, a little bit at a time. Big hugs, and don't forget to be kind to yourself- you have been through real trauma. love Emily ... View more

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Doing the happy dance for you!! This is fantastic news!love Emily ... View more