a new caregiver

gentle_dream

Hi everyone.

My best friend was told that she had a brain tumor. She hasn't told anyone, except me, yet. The time the doctor told her of it was 6 months ago. It was also her last visit to the doctor. She says she is "too busy" to go. I have only known for about 3 months. We are very very close, but we hardly see each other anymore. She is "too tired" when she gets back from work to even answer the phone. I'm 18 years old and I need to talk to a caregiver who has a close case. Please. This is a desprate call for help. I'm more than ready to offer help, support and advice, but when it comes to someone you love so much it becomes hard to think clearly. I need to know that I am not alone, which is what I feel like right now. I only spoke to her 3 times since she told me, and it wasn't for my lack of trying. Please, I need to talk. It could be on chat or just by e-mails. I hope I get a reply soon.

Thank you all so much.

TAremote

Sounds like you have your hands full on this one. I'm not a caregiver, but I have stage 4 Glio BLastoma multiform (brain cancer). Not sure what kind of brain tumor your friend has, but time is of the essence. To give you a little reference point. I was told I had 4 months to live without treatment and 12 months with treatment. It sounds like your friend is in denial, and not excepting the fact she has cancer. Several things could be causing her to not seek medical or emotional help. My guess is she just has not excepted it, and figures if she goes on with life it will go away. The doctor could have also told her something that has caused her to not try.

I will say, it is time to get in her face. No more Mr. nice guy. If you have go get her mad enough to where she will open up and get emotional. Tell her exactly how you feel, be brutialy honest and to the point.
This is life an death, not a game.
I pray that something I have said will help you with your friend. If I can help, please let me know. Also, the chat is a good place to find us and others there are dealing with brain tumors that might help.... Don't give up.....

Tom

TAremote

Any update on your friend?? How is she doing? Please let me know...

Thanks Tom

Lavendar

So sorry about your friend's diagnosis. How is she doing now? Could you contact her parents or other family who could persuade her to seek treatment. My daughter found out she had a brain tumor at age 19. Without support, she would have had trouble facing the diagnosis much less the chemo and radiation treatments. I'm glad you are there for your friend. She needs the support! Good Luck