Forum Discussion
Newly diagnosed
Hi all, my mum had breast cancer at 50 and passed away after 20 year battle. I was diagnosed last week, surgeon appointment tomorrow, surgery booked already. I also had my first grandson last week, sa...
Dear @Louise64
I would have suggested wait until you know a bit more to tell your daughter - just as you are in a whirlwind of appointments and emotions, she will be just as preoccupied with the needs of a newborn and her own changed world. But that’s very hard if you are visiting, much easier time n the phone. Just make sure she has some support too, it’s hard for everyone. If you can give her some clear factual information at that time, it may help. Is your father close by and living at home? My mother was in her late 80s, interstate and in care, so I had staff to talk to. As she was physically frail but perfectly mentally alert, they strongly advised to let her know and to be part of it all, which she responded to very well after the initial shock (no cancer at all in our family). Timing for a bc diagnosis is never great, and as you will recognise, family may react in very different ways. Best wishes whatever you decide and for your surgery and treatment.
I would have suggested wait until you know a bit more to tell your daughter - just as you are in a whirlwind of appointments and emotions, she will be just as preoccupied with the needs of a newborn and her own changed world. But that’s very hard if you are visiting, much easier time n the phone. Just make sure she has some support too, it’s hard for everyone. If you can give her some clear factual information at that time, it may help. Is your father close by and living at home? My mother was in her late 80s, interstate and in care, so I had staff to talk to. As she was physically frail but perfectly mentally alert, they strongly advised to let her know and to be part of it all, which she responded to very well after the initial shock (no cancer at all in our family). Timing for a bc diagnosis is never great, and as you will recognise, family may react in very different ways. Best wishes whatever you decide and for your surgery and treatment.