Here we go again...

Wow. Three weeks ago, the biggest stressor in my life was training a new puppy. Today, it's caring for my schizophrenic mother who received a terminal cancer diagnosis two weeks ago. I'm currently in the "pity-party" phase, considering I lost my father to the same disease at 17, after being his caretaker for five years. I just can't believe at 29 years old, I'm going through this all over again. Not to mention how demeaning and demoralizing the cancer is on the patient. Over the last two weeks, I've watched my mother go from 126 lbs to 112 lbs, her skin turn jaundice, and became a pro at cleaning up chemo-vomit. I'm also trying to sustain a perfect gpa in college and work 40 hours a week to maintain my salary/health insurance in order to keep my life somewhat balanced. All the memories of my father have resurfaced, and I'm currently angry, frustrated, isolated, and depressed. I feel like I'm the only person on the planet that knows this pain and I just wish I didn't feel so alone, when I realize so many others have been through it...

Comments

  • confused902
    confused902 Member Posts: 11
    I know the feeling
    I know where you are coming from, if you read my post titled "divorce & money" you will see I can relate. Like everyone has told me even though its hard, talk to someone or vent here. It will help. I wish I could give you more. Take care
  • grandmafay
    grandmafay Member Posts: 1,633 Member
    Not Alone
    I lost my husband to colon caner after a six year battle. I can tell you that as his caregiver I experienced many of the same feelings you are having. Others on here have also felt as you do. Just know that you are not alone. Come here as often as you need to vent and ask for support. You have a lot on your plate right now. Also, don't try to do this alone. Reach out to family and friends for help. Remember that if you don't take care of yourself, you can't take care of others. Have you contacted Hospice? They would prefer that you do that sooner rather than later. They are there for the caregiver as well as the patient. Take care, Fay
  • hakuna13
    hakuna13 Member Posts: 7
    Totally With You
    I'm totally with you.

    I'm 24 years old and I recently lost my mom to Lung Cancer. My dad passed away when I was 7.

    Now after going through all of this with my mom, my best friend and roommate has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is about to endure her second surgery and aggressive chemo. Can't believe this is happening again so soon and to my support system.

    On top of that, I'm a full time student in a post grad program, working full time and every once in a while trying to find some time for me. Not really sure what to do right now.

    I hope you find comfort.