What Have You Told Your Kids About Your Diagnosis?

I love him. I'm going to be ok. I'm so proud! He doesn't have to take care of me all the time, I appreciate it, but this is his time to thrive.

I think that Really depends on age. I was diagnosed October 17,2024 and started treatment on November 4th. My kids range from 33yrs old - 14yrs old. I was and am completely upfront and honest about it with all of them. The older 2 are out of the home and living their own lives, they are doing okay but mother's day hit different this year. The 2 youngest (boys), know about and have seen the exhaustion. They're very understanding but at first it was all scary. It can also depend on the level to which you're comfortable talking about to your children. I've been very open and realistic with everyone, all of my journey, good and bad, I've posted about online.

It took me a long time to share my scary diagnosis with my granddaughter. I am doing ok so I don’t share how advanced it is. But She sees me always testing and going to the oncologist so she knows it’s serious. She prays a lot for me. It’s hard

That it is absolutely terrible to be feeling the way I feel. That this may be my destiny, to die of cancer. That sometimes, I don't want to continue on, but at the same time, I do because I don't want to leave them. That I want to be around for my grandkids, but now I don't know. That I'm not ok, but I guess I will be at some point. That I don't want them to stop living because they have to help. That they will not become my caretakers.

Think positive Nil. I know it’s hard most of the time. There are so many new meds now with less side effects. You have to stay strong for your grandkids. My granddaughter is thirteen and still meds me or so I push myself to help her and my 91 year old mom who lives with us. Honestly. As tired as I am it’s a good distraction.

I definitely try to be positive. You are right about the distraction when around the grandkids. They make me laugh all the time, and I do all that I can even if I'm exhausted. All of it is hard, especially when you are someone who never depends on anyone or never stays still. It totally sucks!

Agreed. But we have each other to vent to. Anytime. Always the caregiver. Hate anyone taking care of me.

True. Thank you so very much 💕

We are here for each other

I would like to tell my daughter, whondoesn't seem to give much of a care about me anymore lately (she is now 28 and we were once very close) that if she'd like to re-establish a good relationship with me she may want to do that sooner rather than later.

Sharing a cancer diagnosis with children requires such thoughtful consideration, and every family's approach will be unique based on their children's ages, personalities, and circumstances. Many parents find that honest, age-appropriate conversations help children feel included and less anxious about changes they might notice. What experiences or concerns are weighing on your mind as you think about these conversations with your kids?