Hi. New to this chat. My incredible step father has been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.
My biological Dad passed 8 years ago also stage 4.
I am really struggling. My Mum is in pieces and I live closest in distance to them,( have 3 siblings) am also a Nurse and feel very overwhelmed with trying to support Mum, whilst trying to absorb this shock of his diagnosis. I fear that I am unable to work as feel that I need to be selfishly caring for them, not others at this time. Anyone else in this position. Im emotionally exhausted
@Jo-Jo …I’m sorry you’re going through such a tough time. Although my current situation is different from yours, I have lost both my dad and step dad. If I knew then what I know now, I’d have taken time off to be with my mum and step dad.
Could you ask for reduced hours for a few weeks to support your mum initially?
Or maybe compassionate leave whilst you try to organise something with the rest of your family to take turns to visit and support your mum?
And if you can organise any home care or respite care between you, take it.
Depending where you are, there may be a local hospice that can help with this.
It’s a lot to take on by yourself.
I’m sure you know that you need to look after yourself first before you can look after your mum. You’ve probably said that to your patients and their families at some point.
I hope you find a way through
Hugs