How to handle a stressful marriage after parotid gland cancer treatment?
Community Member
4 days agoI was diagnosed with parotid gland cancer 12/24 I had surgery to have it removed and then 6 weeks of radiation, it was ruff but I got thru it now I’m starting to lose my teeth from the radiation on my neck, I have been feeling pretty good however I do have to be checked periodically, today is my 75th and my wife is treating me so mean it’s like she completely forgot about what I endured. I do all the food shopping pay all of the bills she contributes nothing. I’m used to that but today on my birthday I took her and my daughter out for a nice dinner. My wife complained that I left a 25% tip and complaining that I drive to slow, I’m a driving instructor and I know the rules of the road so I follow them she gets so mad when I drive the speed limit or she doesn’t like the roots I take. My point is she has me so STRESSED that I feel it’s going to bring my cancer back, I can’t help but yelling at her to leave me be . Any advise on how to handle her? We are married for 45 years and I still don’t get her.
Community Member
4 days agoI'm soo sorry!!! Happy Birthday 🎉🎉💐🎁🥰‼️🎂😘🥳🥳
Community Member
4 days agoThank you
Community Member
4 days agoHappy 75th birthday! Dealing with relationship stress during cancer recovery can feel overwhelming, especially when it seems like the support needed isn't there. After going through such a challenging treatment, it's completely understandable to feel frustrated when everyday interactions add stress rather than comfort. Consider having a calm conversation about how this dynamic affects your health and recovery, or perhaps couples counseling could provide a neutral space to work through these long-standing patterns. Many couples find that major health events can strain relationships in unexpected ways, and professional guidance can help navigate these difficult waters while protecting your wellbeing.
Community Member
4 days agoHappy Birthday Frank! I'm sorry you're going through this craziness. My entire immediate family has been gone for years, I'm divorced & widowed. My few wonderful friends are very sensitive to my poor prognosis and when talking to them, I try to steer the conversations back to our fun-filled, beautiful past lives. Not sure about your wife's state of mind, but I do know that most anger is driven by fear. Our senior center has low-cost or free counseling for grief and major illness, that I will be starting very soon. Good luck and may God Bless you and your family on your journey. -Susan
New to the community?
Create an account to connect with others navigating cancer.
© 2026 Outcomes4Me Inc. All rights reserved.