Sparkles . Having been through the cancer experience myself, it's very perceptive of you to understand that she's reacting to the crazy rollercoaster of the early cancer experience. The diagnosis phase is really tough, the information only comes in dribs and drabs, it's still new and a shock, there are lots of people who want to stick pointy instruments into you, and then there's the added distress around telling the people in your life. It all feels just a little unreal (or hyperreal), crazy, and out of control. This doesn't last forever, and once there's a treatment plan and it swings into action, it gets a bit easier to focus.

The Cancer Council have some good tips on how to support someone with cancer here. They also have publications dealing with various aspects of the cancer experience, including one about caring for someone with cancer. You can download those from here.

They also have a Helpline, any one with cancer or their families can ring and speak to a counsellor over the phone. This means that your mum can ring them, but that you can also ring them for help and support, too. It's a fantastic service.