Both parents diagnosed with cancer

charlied
charlied Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Caregivers #1
My mom was diagnosed with lymphoma in 1998. In Feburary, 2003 she began workups for a bone marrow transplant. She is in and out of the hospital every 3 or 4 weeks. In May my father was diagnosed with Lung Cancer and is currently receiving Radiation and Chemotherapy.
Dad has not worked since May 16 and spends most of his time in his recliner. I know that both chemo and radiation taxes his energy stores, but some days he feels pretty good but doesn't do anything at all. This concerns me because I don't want him to just let go and let the cancer get the best of him. At the same time I know that he needs to rest. My mom tries to stay busy when she is home and will try to accomplish little jobs around the house until she feels tired. Does anyone have any suggestions about trying to keep dads spirits up and maybe have him do little tasks or something other than sit in his chair and dwell on the cancer? I think sometimes too that I am just used to seeing him working all of the time and the fact that he has to rest often is not his normal routine. I am still learning how to cope with both parents having cancer and getting them to where they need to be. I appriciate any responses.

Comments

  • ProjectCarol
    ProjectCarol Member Posts: 4
    The American Cancer Society can offer information on dealing with side effects of treatment and cancer, as well as the emotional impact of cancer on the family. Please call 1-800-ACS-2345, if you wish to speak with a Cancer Information Specialist. You can also reach us via the 'Contact ACS' link at the top of the page.

    The American Cancer Society can help you find support groups in your community, if you wish to speak with others who are caregivers, in addition to visiting our Cancer Survivors Network. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • marisadj
    marisadj Member Posts: 7
    Hi,
    I think you are very strong for commiting yourself to this. My dad has colon cancer and experiences fatigue and resistance to eating. I wish I could offer the right way to go with this, but since this is new (June 03) I havent gotten it figured out yet. I'd like to hear from and see what has improved... Im going to check out that link given in the response too. Best of everything to you and your parents,
    ~m