Any nurses dealing with a personal terminal illness?

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I've been reading here for years, and had another username (I lost access to the password, and the email account, so I am back now under another username).

I'm in the middle of a diagnostic process, that, if it goes the way it seems, may lead to either a terminal diagnosis at worst, or, at best, a significant physical limitation that will negatively impact my ability to practice.

I'm the breadwinner for my family, retired DH and 3 teens. I provide the income, the access to health insurance, other benefits etc.

I am finding that I know too much, I see too many possibilities, and I get the clinical implications, prognosis, etc., Worst of all, knowing healthcare from the inside, I am very frustrated at the slow process of getting in to different physicians/offices/testing facilities so that I can just get this figured out and make plans accordingly.

I'm really scared. Thanks for reading.

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Specializes in ORTHO, PCU, ED.

I'm so so sorry, songbird. Wow. That has to be scary. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

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Specializes in Clinical Research, Outpt Women's Health.

Wishing you good health.

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Specializes in ED, psych.

I'm so sorry, Songbird. I truly have no words. So many big (((hugs))) and prayers to you.

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Specializes in Oncology; medical specialty website.

Yes, I am. It's a daily struggle.

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Yes, I am. It's a daily struggle.

*hugs*

And OP *hugs*

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Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.

I am so sorry. I'm not dealing with my own diagnosis but that of my dear husband, who is on hospice for pancreatic cancer. I can't even imagine what you must be going through. I hope things work out for the best. ((((HUGS))))

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Specializes in Infusion Nursing, Home Health Infusion.

Oh my dear please hang in there and come here for help and support. There are many good people here with kind and caring hearts. its OK to be scared..I would be too! Stay focused on the here and now and take it one day at a time so you can cope and not feel overwhelmed.

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Sending huge hugs and prayers your way. I am so sorry dear. You sound like a pillar of strength for your family.

God bless and keep you. You can always PM me if you need prayer for anything specific or just to talk.

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Oh my, I can't imagine what you are going through. Knowing what we know as nurses has advantages and disadvantages.

Try to take everything one step at a time. Everything will work itself out. And please come talk to us any time you need support.

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Specializes in Early Intervention, Nsg. Education.

I, too, have a progressive illness. In fact, I'm several years past my "anticipated expiration date." My illness has cost me my hearing and mobility, and I am technology-dependent for ventilation and nutrition/hydration. However, I feel like there's got to be a pretty good reason for me to be here, and I am holding up my end of the bargain by providing support to people in similar situations. Please PM me. I can provide you with resources that could help you and your family during this frightening and uncertain time.

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Specializes in Early Intervention, Nsg. Education.

If anyone else is interested in grants for home modification, accessible transportation, grants to cover DME, medical treatment, consumable supplies, adult wish programs, medical transportation, or other needs, I can provide you with information.

I'm definitely risking "outing myself" here if this thread pops up on a Google search, but I think it's worth it. [emoji4]

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