Hello, I’m struggling a bit at the moment and wanted to see if there was anyone in a similar position or with any guidance.
When I was 2, my Dad died of multiple myeloma (blood cancer). I’m now 18 and working towards my A-levels (which are four months away, eek!). I’ve been raised by my amazing Mum, and it’s always been just us. I’ve also always been very close with my Grandparents, especially my Gramps who was a makeshift father figure to me.
Two weeks ago he died quite suddenly of mesothelioma (lung cancer) which has been really challenging. I miss him so much, sometimes it’s like I can’t breathe.
My Mum has also recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, which seemed a pretty routine diagnosis at first (only one breast, hormonal, probably no chemo). Then we found out it had spread to the other breast. Yesterday morning she woke me up to say it’s spread to her liver and bones, too. It doesn’t look good. She hasn’t started treatment yet (nor been given the treatment plan) but she keeps talking to me like she’s dying.
I’m trying my best to keep her optimistic but it’s really hard, and with my exams so close I’ve been struggling to revise. My response to all of this has been mainly to numb myself, which is okay until it builds up and I’ve had a few breakdowns at Sixth Form. I know it’s not healthy but it’s the only way I can cope day-to-day. My teachers are very understanding but I already have 5 essays overdue, and I don’t know how to manage all these feelings and obligations.
Any advice or anyone to talk to would be great. I feel really alone at the moment.
positive as you have a good future in front of you.Keep yourself busy with study but off course spend time with her as well.