Hi and thanks for your post. What you write about is so common especially for family carers. It dfficult to balance self care and care for your mother. Its often a double edged sword. Carers often feel guilty when they experience ilness themselves. In fact many carers don't report their own illness as their caring role is so demanding. Its important to recognise that you do need time to look after yourself and its not whinging - its you saying you need some help. Many family members do become less available and this does impact on those who do care - so, you are not alone - many carers experience just what you are going through - so don't be so hard on yourself. It important to find time even if its an odd half hour or hour where you can take some time away to recharge your batteries. If family members have said they will be available - its time to reach out and ask - your are not being difficult or demanding - you are just looking after your mother and yourself. You can also if - you don't already, contact the palliative care team in your local area - call 13 11 20 and speak with teh Cancer Helpline. There is also a new service called Home Hospice that the Cancer Council is sponsoring with others caled home Hospice. You can speak with someone on 1800 132 229 or call the Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre on 1800 059 059 and good luck with everything.
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