lizzielou Posted February 17, 2007 Share Posted February 17, 2007 My dad is fighting a long battle with cancer. My mom has "retired" to stay home and take care of him. Does anyone have any ideas of what I can do to keep them in good spirits or make them smile? It's hard to visit with them because my dad has a hard time functioning (brain cancer) and my mom can't really leave him for extended periods of time. Thanks for all of your ideas! Link to post Share on other sites
konfuzd Posted February 17, 2007 Share Posted February 17, 2007 Aw, I'm so sorry you're going through this. I have an aunt who's fighting a losing battle with cancer now as well. Her prognosis is now month to month and they've stopped allowing visitors. I have started writing her letters. Kind of a personal journal, just to keep her occupied, and she can read on her own time. I try to make it as silly, humorous and lighthearted as I can. My mom works at the hospital, so she drops in occasionally, and says that she just beams when she gets the letters. Maybe you could cook your mom a nice meal or something, or bring a do it yourself manicure kit over, and treat her to a mini spa treatment that she can enjoy while still close to your dad. I'm sure she could use some pampering right now too. Again, I'm sorry to hear of your situation, and I wish you the best! Link to post Share on other sites
Author lizzielou Posted February 17, 2007 Author Share Posted February 17, 2007 Thanks, konfuzd! You have some great ideas! Link to post Share on other sites
pureinheart Posted February 18, 2007 Share Posted February 18, 2007 Where are your parents at spiritually? If you know someone who is spiritually in the right direction, with the gift of exhortation (encouragement) ask if they will visit your parents....they both need hope....hope and faith can be lost during these times.....pray for them, they need it..... Link to post Share on other sites
pricillia Posted February 18, 2007 Share Posted February 18, 2007 Oh I am sorry that you and your parents are going through this! I recently lost my mother to Lung Cancer. I would say just being there for them in this tough time, knowing that you care and helping out is the only thing I can think of. Link to post Share on other sites
Jinxx Posted February 23, 2007 Share Posted February 23, 2007 Oh I am sorry that you and your parents are going through this! I recently lost my mother to Lung Cancer. I would say just being there for them in this tough time, knowing that you care and helping out is the only thing I can think of. Lost my mom the same way you did pricillia. Just being there as often as you can lending your support is the best. Offer to do shopping, help with cleaning, bookkeeping. That was the greatest comfort my sisters and I could give to my father when my family went through this. Link to post Share on other sites
brandie32 Posted March 15, 2007 Share Posted March 15, 2007 Well I kind of understand what you are going thru, however this is very personal and only you truely understand. My dad died of a brain anorism when I was younger. I really do not remember much just being in the hospital with alot of confusion and cring. Funny I can remeber my sister holding my hand, mostly--the little things When I was 26 my mother was diagnosed with brain cancer. It was horrible she was given 8 months to live. I stopped working my day job and bartended at night, my sister was a nuse in the hospital my mother used. I had a step father huge jack ass but her was able to help at night when I was working. My brother was in his 2 year of college. He was my main concern. I made sure I was available to him and always talked to him about the latest girl or party. He would visit me at the bar and I would give him money from my tip jar. Just tried to be a source of strength, and it really worked and even with my sister. The 3 of us are very close we are all we have. All you can do is get thru each day, and try to stay calm. With so much going on calmsess and a clear mind is the best remedy. The better you can take care of yourself, will let allow you to see what you can do for your family. I wish you well. Link to post Share on other sites
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