Who do you deal with it?

Question

I’m scared and sad. I got a call from my dad today that my grandma’s cancer is back. Her ovarian cancer had been in remission for over 6 years. But in the last two weeks her blood count has doubled ever two or three days. She is old and is not in the best of health and because of that they are treating her pain only. What I’m scared my mom is dealing with cancer at moment also. My mom’s mom had terminal cancer in the late 60’s before she was killed by a drunk driver. To top that off there is not a woman on my mother’s side that has been able to keep their female parts after 30 years of age. At the moment things seem to so bleak. I am angry, hurt and scared. I don’t know to with these feelings.

Answer 1

Your feelings are certainly understandable. I would suggest you need to take a proactive approach.

First, discuss you family history with your personal physician and consider see a genetic counselor. They may be able to help you learn what your personal risk really is. Most people over-estimate their risk of cancer. Also they can help you develop sensible prevention and screening strategies.

Second, try contacting you local American Cancer Society. They can point you toward support groups. Additionally, you can take some of your appropriate anxiety and anger and channel it in to something productive by becoming a ACS volunteer. This will also have the benefit letting you meet people who have survived cancer.

Good luck. I will pray for you and your family.

Answer 2

Hi Jane~
I'm sorry you're having a hard time dealing with this news. Yes, cancer is a really scary thing, and those of us that are on the sidelines watching our loved ones deal often feel very, very scared, hopeless, and useless to help.
Many years ago I learned about the American Cancer Society. As a volunteer for ACS I participate in our local Relay For Life event ever year. Our little town raises over $100,000 every year to aid in cancer research and to help fund the local American Cancer Society office which provides money to pay for services for cancer patients, like paying for motel rooms, travel expenses during treatment.
Relay For Life is a national, and now in many other countries also. I bet you can find one near you by checking out the website I'll give you. You might want to get involved. It helps to be able to do something substantial in times when you feel there is no hope, this event will let you know that there is indeed hope. We are winning this battle!
You can also contact ACS 24 hours a day to ask questions about different kinds of cancer. Knowledge will help allay your fears for what your family members are going through.
Since your family seems to be one of those families that are pre-disposed to cancer, be sure to check out what types of pre-screening you should keep up on for your own health.
Hang in there, and turn your fear and pain into your own personal mission. It's the only constructive thing to do.
Big Hug!

Answer 3

Of course, you're concerned and scared. I suggest focusing on the ones who are ill right now. Your worrying and getting upset help nobody, not you, not them. Calm yourself and spend time with these people. See what you can do to help them.