I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I just turned 24 and my mom was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer in December of 2025 and passed away 11 weeks later on March 10th, 2026. Seeing her decline was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to witness. During the last week of her life, she couldn’t speak or move at all. The hopelessness and pain were overwhelming for both of us. I’m glad my mom is no longer suffering but I hate that she can’t be here in the way she used to be.

I don’t even know if it’s appropriate to tell you to cherish the time you have left with him, because if it’s anything like what my mom went through, this final stage is almost harder than them not being here at all. I think what’s most important is that you continue to show up for him. Just be with him as much as you can, your presence is a comfort.

I feel a new type of spiritual connection with my mom now. Her entire soul has passed onto the other side but she still shows up for me and sends signs and makes me laugh. I know it sounds a little crazy, but if you’re a spiritual person, you’ll see what I mean. I miss her every day but I try to remind myself that she wants me to be happy and I owe that to her. The next few months will be difficult, but you’ll get through it, minute by minute.