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WHY CANT MY FAMILY UNDERSTAND HOW SERIOUS LUNG CANCER IS AND GIVE ME ANY SUPPORT

A MyLungCancerTeam Member asked a question 💭
Cincinnati, OH
January 21
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A MyLungCancerTeam Member

My family has never supported any of my health issues nor my husbands. That showed me an avoidance characteristic which is quite common. But it left me alone to do all the right things. Frankly, I don’t like my families selfishness. When my husband died, only one person came to see me, and older brother. But he didn’t help with my lung cancer, never asks me about it. I am fortunate that I was a doctoral level cancer researcher for all my life so I knew what to do. I feel very lonely now. I am facing the reality of end of life. I did relocate after my husband died due to living too remotely. I live in a one story home that is perfect for a a widow. Reduced risk of falls, and I live 1 mile from a hospital. I used a business called Drive by and Angel one time.
Humans are social beings, but not unlike other species, we neglect to older and family with problems. not everyone, but many. We see this all over the world. We created mechanical systems and now can’t live without them.
I spend my life reading news, watching history documentaries and go to the opera. All by myself. My husband was indeed my best friend, I miss him so much. But I have so many pictures and memories, that I focus on making my home a safe and comfortable place. My 2 dogs are with me right this second, as the gardeners are clearing my yard. Charlie is my German shepherd and he is right next to me listening to the noises. Protecting me.
My family lives 600 miles away and I have no expectation they will ever visit me.

January 21
MyLungCancerTeam

How can you help your family understand the seriousness of lung cancer when you're not getting the support you need?

It's incredibly difficult when the people closest to you don't fully grasp what you're going through. Many people with lung cancer face this challenge, and it can feel isolating.

Lung cancer often comes Show Full Answer

How can you help your family understand the seriousness of lung cancer when you're not getting the support you need?

It's incredibly difficult when the people closest to you don't fully grasp what you're going through. Many people with lung cancer face this challenge, and it can feel isolating.

Lung cancer often comes with a unique burden that other cancers don't face. There's less public awareness, fewer fundraisers, and sometimes even a social stigma that makes people assume it's smoking-related. This can make it harder for family members to understand the true impact of the diagnosis.

Consider these approaches to help your family understand:

- Share specific information about your diagnosis, treatment plan, and how it affects your daily life
- Invite family members to attend a doctor's appointment with you so they can hear directly from your medical team
- Explain the physical symptoms you're experiencing (fatigue, pain, shortness of breath) and how they limit your activities
- Be honest about your emotional needs and fears, including concerns about the cancer spreading

If direct communication isn't working, involving a professional can help. A cancer social worker, family therapist, or even your oncologist can facilitate conversations and help your family understand the seriousness of your condition.

Remember, caregivers and family members sometimes struggle with their own fear and anxiety, which can come across as lack of understanding or support. Open communication, though difficult, is essential for everyone involved.

January 21
A MyLungCancerTeam Member
January 21
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

You are in our thoughts on here Thank you for sharing @A MyLungCancerTeam Member

January 21
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Amen 🙏 I know how this feels. Being on here has been a Family for me. Thank you for posting this. We are here for each other!

January 21

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