A Caregiver's Story...

Hi! Remember me?

Following is a guest post by Cameron, whose wife has battled mesothelioma. This is his account of what it took for him to be a caregiver.

Caregivers play such an invaluable role. I couldn't have done it without my rockstar, Matt, and my awesome daughters. They need support as well.

Enjoy Cameron's story.

How I Learned to Be My Wife's Cancer Caregiver

Malignant pleural mesothelioma were the three words that we heard on November 21, 2005 when my wife, Heather, was diagnosed with cancer. I immediately assumed the role of caregiver in her life, but I had no idea what I was doing. This news came three months after my daughter Lily was born. Instead of sharing our first holiday celebrating with our new daughter, we were spending it with family figuring out how we would get through a battle with cancer.

After the diagnosis, our lives were chaotic. Heather and I worked full time prior to her diagnosis, but now she was not able to work. I could only work part time while caring for her and Lily, and I had numerous other responsibilities that I didn’t think I could handle. Between my wife’s doctor’s appointments, trips to Boston to meet with a mesothelioma specialist, taking care of my daughter, and making travel arrangements, I was overwhelmed, and my thoughts began to race.

I tried to remain positive through this whole struggle, but often my fears and anxieties would get the best of me. Sometimes I could help but picture the worst, Heather passing away and me being left a broke widower raising a daughter who would never really know her mother. I was in utter despair, and some days I would lie on my kitchen floor and bawl uncontrollably. However I never allowed Heather to see my fears, despite having these moments of weakness. I always did my best to remain strong in her presence.

I don’t think I could have done it without the help of friends, family, and even strangers. They offered everything from comforting words to financial assistance. We advise all cancer patients to accept any help they can get no matter how big or small. I learned the hard way that there is no room for pride in a fight with cancer.

Being a caregiver is stressful and full of uncertain days. It was the most challenging experience that I have ever had. Some days will be difficult, but no matter how hard it gets, you can never walk away from it. During the difficult times, just use all of your resources to help you remain sane. Above all else, never, ever give up hope, and always keep fighting for the one you love.

After Heather’s surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, it took many years for life to return to normal. It was the most difficult struggle of our lives, but today Heather is cancer-free, and has been for seven years. Mesothelioma is no longer a part of our lives. We hope that by sharing our story of success over cancer, we can help inspire others in there own battles to never give up hope, and to always keep fighting.


Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance
http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/cameron/