future plans

Hi ChoiGirl,

Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community.

My name is Carole and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

I’m sorry to read about your mum’s recent diagnosis but pleased to read that she is well at the moment.

I can appreciate that you would like to understand what might happen in the future, so that you can decide whether to travel with work.

As you say, there is no way of saying how long. When doctors are asked about prognosis, then can only give an estimate. Some people like to know, even roughly how long they might live for, so they can make plans. Other people, like your mum, don’t want to know.

Everyone’s cancer is different and as nurses on this platform we don’t have access to medical notes. This means it’s difficult for us to say what is likely to happen, and when your mum may need more support.

Sometimes palliative care nurses are best placed to offer advice, especially if they have already assessed your mum. They can’t discuss your mum’s diagnosis with you without her consent, but they may be able to say when they think she is likely to need more support from them, and from you.

It may be helpful to speak to your employer about work commitments and any concerns you have. Our booklet ‘Work and Caring’ provides tips and information which might be good to read before you do this.

Caring can be rewarding, but it can be physically and emotionally difficult. We are just at the end of the phone if you’d like to talk to one of the nurses. And online groups like our carers only forum and our family and friends forum can be a good source of support.

I hope this is helpful.

Sending best wishes,

Carole

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

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