CommunitiesMental Health and MindfulnessHow do I cope with stage 4 cancer while caring for wife with dementia?

How do I cope with stage 4 cancer while caring for wife with dementia?

DP

Community Member

a month ago

I'm not going to make it. My wife has dementia. I have stage 4 and on delaying chemo. I'm stressed to the max. I can't eat healthy because she can't cook and she won't let me cook. I can't go for a walk because I can't be out of her sight for a minute. The chemo gives me diarrhea, when I'm in the bathroom she wants me to hurry because of something she needs. I feel like selfish garbage because I am getting angry and it's not her fault. I would like someone to care for me, but she doesn't even know I have cancer. I can't relax because I have to stay on top of things. Sorry, I just need to vent and i don't want to burden family. So you guys get to hear it.

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21 comments
Comment
CS

Community Member

a month ago

Hang in there that seems very hard to deal with seeing she is sick an you are as well maybe try getting a social worker an they can pay for someone to come in am help the both of you God bless you hope for a better year

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PS

Community Member

a month ago

I agree, have someone come in to give you some breathing room. It’s difficult to care for someone with dementia let alone when you are facing stage 4 cancer.

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JO

Community Member

a month ago

God be with you and yours dave. So sorry for all this. Hebrews 12:2 — “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…” When we keep our eyes on Jesus: Fear loses its grip Distractions fade Hope is renewed Faith is strengthened Just like Peter walking on the water, as long as our focus stays on Christ, we can stand even in the storm. When we look away, He is still there—ready to lift us up. May today be filled with peace, trust, and confidence as you keep your eyes on Jesus. ✨

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CS

Community Member

a month ago

Amen thats the greatest thing I've heard today an so true I've seen miracles in my life with this cancer an others God be with everyone 🙏

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RR

Community Member

a month ago

David, google (food network) 51 healthy smoothies, There are plenty of healthy recipes you can add protein powder. There are programs that deliver meals (meals on wheels) Also you should be eligible for in home services. Hope this helps! Good luck! Keep up the fight!

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PS

Community Member

a month ago

David for your own well being call that social work, your doctor’s office and explain what’s going on so you can get all the help out there that is available to you and your wife. Try ordering meals from Hello Fresh, set up home delivery services from different grocery stores, set up where you have prescriptions delivered to your home.

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IR

Community Member

a month ago

David, Talk to your care team and they can help you find support and assistance. Be honest as able, to family and friends. Cancer is overwhelming and getting help or support is recommended. Life is a gift from God and our journeys are not easy… God did not have an easy journey on earth and my religion has absolutely helped me deal with aggressive treatment needs, as without care I was given 3 months to live, and that was over 2 years ago. Today, I’m still potentially curable. Cancer is no longer a death sentence. Please know that reaching out for help shows “strength” and not weakness. Negativity is not from God. Prayers and best wishes.

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MB

Community Member

a month ago

Your venting is fine even healthy. Be strong brother!

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MJ

Community Member

a month ago

God bless you, please reach out for assistance. You can't fight this without help. The palliative care team can assist in finding the right people to help you.

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BP

Community Member

a month ago

It might be a good idea to take her to her doctor and the both of you explain what is going on with you so that she isn't totally crushed when all of the sudden you aren't there. Or worse finds you passed. Do you have children? If so tell them you are extremely ill and you cannot take care of yourself and help your wife with her dementia. You may consider placing her in a home so that you can concentrate on getting better. If you explain things every day to her, it will be better for the both of you. Contact your oncologist and tell him you need help. They know of places that can help

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LK

Community Member

a month ago

Praying for you🙏🏽

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SA

Community Member

a month ago

Let your family and friends in. You shouldn’t do this alone. You have to focus on your health to be any good for your wife. Reach out to her insurance company or yours. Medicare or Medicare. Get in home assistance. Praying for you brother 🙏🏾

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CW

Community Member

a month ago

I am prying for you! Do you have a kid that can come stay and help out? How can we help?

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MB

Community Member

a month ago

That’s why we are here. Vent away!

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LB

Community Member

a month ago

Sending prayers and healing thoughts

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RO

Community Member

a month ago

David, Hang in there, I know those words do not really provide an adequate solution. Ask for help from social workers involved, friends and any family. Praying for you both.

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MR

Community Member

a month ago

Hi David. Vent as much as you want here. We all understand how difficult it is to be positive when faced with all the challenges life is throwing at you. Some of your anger is you feel your body has let you down. Some is due to the restrictions to your lifestyle in which your happy retirement with your wife looks nonexistent. Not to mention all the daily events that keep reminding you of all this. Please speak with your doctor and request assessment and assistance or whatever they suggest to lighten your burden. You have to this point been entirely independent now it’s time to lean on folk who have broad shoulders. Whatever faith you follow reconnect. Trust in your God and feel His peace and healing. Take little steps everyday for your own well being, be grateful when you awaken and notice the good things in life. It’s difficult at the start but you will notice a change in the coming days when you can just breathe again and start to focus on what’s possible and it is I can guarantee worthwhile. Keep us posted and let out all that rage and steam here. We will be rooting for you xxx

JG

Community Member

a month ago

I don’t know at what stage your wife’s dementia is, but get help in placing her in a memory care facility while you get yourself well. You can always visit her when you feel up to it. Start with seeing her doctor and explaining your situation. God Bless

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KC

Community Member

a month ago

Oh my gosh, you have too much on your plate. I am so sorry.

CM

Community Member

a month ago

Try separate bathrooms, so she can access her stuff and give you the privacy you need. It works for us

AH

Community Member

a month ago

Hi, Dave, These are all great suggestions! You don’t need to face this alone or in your own strength! Your Palliative team is a good place to start. Hang in there, my friend! I am praying for you!

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