I don’t put frequent personal updates on here but I think over the coming months it will be easier to have this out there. A couple of weeks ago my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer. It’s highly unlikely to be operable and we’re informed that it isn’t curable so we’re at the improving quality of life/extending life stage. Fortunately it may be possible for that the be a good length of time but we’re in a holding pattern right now.
What’s extra weird is that this is really, really out of the blue. GP office tests showed up nothing and it was due to the GP being cautious that he went for a colostomy. His only symptom is on-off stomach upset and some digestive upset. He’s healthy and only in his late 60’s. I think we all feel like we’ve somehow been dropped into someone else’s life, it’s very surreal. I have no clue what the future month’s will hold, a big part of me doesn’t really want to know. I’m just grateful that I’m here on a physical and emotional level. My parents live next door to me and are very much part of our extended family so I’ve got the ability to help them a lot.
This is why I’ve put this up here, my knitting and business will go on as normal but I’m going to be spending a lot of time in waiting rooms and hospitals with my parents over the coming months. I love having the mental and physical distraction of knitting, in fact I think my mother will shortly be taking crochet up again for the first time in years! I’m probably going to be quieter than before on social media though as my mental energy will be elsewhere. You may see a bit more of Nadia posting for me but that’s always a good thing!
Do Write as much as you can, here or elsewhere in a journal or some such; and enjoy your time. I had 4 years taking care of my mum – different illness, she had a brain haemorrhage. I’m so grateful every day for the time. Many days were painful and hard but the few days we laughed and shared memories were worth all the pain. Now I comfort myself with those laughs. But I really wish I’d written more down. So if there’s anything you can take from my experience please let it be that: because time will go fast and things will happen and you’ll forget what order it all happened in and afterwards these things are important to settle your mind. I don’t know why they are, but they are. Sending peace for your head and strength for your heart x
Sending love and healing thoughts to you and your family, Carol. Thank you so much for letting us know.
Ah Carol….
These unexpected curveballs that life puts in our path…I will be thinking about you and your family so much in the next months…what a blessing that you are next door.
Be ever so kind to yourself, Carol, in the days ahead…from the bottom of my heart i wish you and your Dad and Mum solace and peace (peace can come at the most unexpected times in tough situations). They are so blessed to have you so near…
Sending love and a big hug…
P.
With sighs too deep for words. Some of the most special moments I had with my dad were driving him to treatments, and in the chemo rooms where there were bowls of yarn and needles with squares to knit and yarn to untangle. It is not an easy time, but it is an important time. Thinking of you and your family.
I’m so sorry Carol. Thanks for letting us know so we can support you through this next chapter of your life. Please be assured of my prayers. As a Chaplain in Oncology I always remind my patients to not get lost in the physical healing but look for the other miracles along the way. They are there! Blessings!
Life is tough – and I echo all of your other comments. However, your dad looks like a pretty amazing guy and he can wear a stunning hand knit like a pro!
Keep cheerful.
Just went through something similar last year with my Dad. It was life-altering. It’s so healthy that you’re reaching out. Keep doing so. You’re not alone. Love and hugs to you and yours.
Oh Carol…..I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. My Dad passed from prostate cancer 7 years ago. i will be praying for you and your family. Take care,
Thank you.