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Life-limiting illness

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Friend with terminal cancer

1 reply

SleepBecomesHim321 · 12/11/2018 16:11

A close friend was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year and it has now spread and is terminal. My friend is part of a clinical trial but it remains to be seen what effect, if any, that will have. I’m trying not to disclose revealing details.

They are bedbound and becoming weaker and weaker. Messaging is not really possible anymore and even talking is a challenge.

We (other friends) have visited whenever we can, provided some practical interventions (food, household support), and remain in regular message contact without any expectation of reciprocity. My friend’s family has rallied round and is providing care and support (including childcare costs and other expenses). They have young children.

Is there anything else we could be doing? I think they have, practically, everything they need now. Emotionally/mentally, we can continue to be in touch (one way), and send the odd gift – but is there anything else at this point? What we really want is to visit, but that doesn’t seem to be an option at the moment.

Thank you x

OP posts:
TubeOSmarties · 12/11/2018 18:00

So sorry to hear about your friend, very sad. Cancer is such a bastard.

Firstly, bless you for doing what you are/have already and coming on here to ask more. Your friend must be able to feel that love and care and that will mean the world to them. They also sound well cared for by family, which at this time, is the most important thing. If you are in touch with the family, you could possibly see if they have any suggestions for what else you could do - eg are they in turn being supported?

Whilst I totally understand your wish to help, it is difficult to know what to suggest, your friend sounds very poorly. I’m so sorry this has happened to them and within your friendship group. Sad

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