November 2013
Hi
I've recently lost my dad in September from esophageal and thyroid cancer. I miss him terribly and just wish he was here. My mum and I cared for him at home for most of his illness and it was so hard to watch him deteriate as he had been such a strong independent person pre cancer. I work within the health industry and I have been so surprised by the lack of empathy showed by only a few of my colleagues. ( I have also been very blessed by the beautiful messages and acts of kindness of many people throughout this journey). I just feel that these colleagues just don't get it because it hasn't happen to them. They just expect that you will be back to the same as before the diagnosis. It's only been 2 months!! I just feel like not talking to anyone in case they say something that I will perceive as insensitive. Anyway enough venting for now.
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November 2013
Hi if anyone is in or around Brisbane and could use these items to make life a little easier. Give away. All in perfect condition. Can arrange delivery if that helps.
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November 2013
Hi
Tried to access your song but u can't right now so will try again later. Wow what an incredible journey you have been on. All the very best to you. Hope to chat soon.
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November 2013
Hi
I can imagine how difficult this may be for you and your husband. My dad was diagnosed with thyroid and esophageal cancer in March and passed away in September this year. My mum & I looked after dad at home for that time and he also found it very difficult to eat. I tended to try all different foods some would be a complete disaster and others depending on the day would be successful. Scrambled eggs, omelets, soup, stews, porridge, jelly, ice cream and fruit crush ups where often successful. I Also supplemented his meals with a high energy shake like sustagen or ensure two cal for morning or afternoon tea. As for the depression this part of the disease was very difficult to deal with as my dad had always been such a independent and proud man and he really crumbled understandably when first diagnosed. I took dad to see his GP who prescribed antidepressants and also offered some counseling - this really improved dads mood so just a thought. This is a very difficult road ahead for you both, you need to take care of yourself too. Depending on where you are there may be some community support to assist with chores etc so you and your husband can focus on the treatment, and of course so you don't become overwhelmed with all that has to be done. I wish you both all the very best. Take care.
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November 2013
Hi
It seem that any illnesses bring out the very best and worse in families. Whilst its important for family and friends to visit, you and your 2 sons must be the priority. Maybe setting some boundaries like telling the extended family they can only visit on certain days might help this is not unreasonable and honestly it must be exhausting for both you and your husband. Ive just recently lost my beautiful dad, (we looked after him at home for the past 9 months) one of the things that would really annoy me is when people even health professionals asked inappropriate questions in front of my dad, in the end I would say to them at the time I will speak to you about this latter. Some people just have no idea. Take care of yourself too.
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November 2013
Hi
This is a very difficult situation for you too be in. I don't think going over there will help if he has said not to. Maybe writing a letter to him and perhaps a separate letter to her saying that you want to be part of this journey for him and letting him know you love him. You never know she might be really needing some support through this too so you could support each other and in turn improve the current situation. Hope this helps, take care.
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November 2013
Hi
My dad also passed away from this dreadful disease in September. I understand completely what your saying about your mum and she is very fortunate to have your support. I am supporting my mum through this also but I suggested she see a grief counsellor which has been beneficial as she can say whatever she wants without upsetting anyone. It does take time - people keep saying this, I think you just learn to deal with it better. I miss my dad so much and the worst part of the illness was watching him get sicker. I keep telling myself he died peacefully and is in a better place without pain.
Take care
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November 2013
Hi there
Sorry your feeling this way. You sound like you have been through a incredibly hard journey. So wonderful that your doing so well now. I'm only new to this site, I don't have cancer but have been caring for my dad until he passed away in September - he had thyroid and esophageal cancer.
Take care.
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November 2013
Hi there
Was just reading your post, was wondering how you are feeling. Do you live near Brisbane, there may be other support services you may be able to engage.
Take care.
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November 2013
Hi Rachael
This seems totally unacceptable. Not sure what work you do. But if your in the union you should get in touch even if your not in the union I'm sure they will be helpful. As for your sister in law as its not happening to her and her life has not been disrupted in anyway, she has no idea what your going through and by the sounds of it isn't even trying to understand. Keep your spirits up your doing so well working at all. Take care.
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