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Metastatic malignant melanoma

Linda06
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Hello my hubby as metastatic malignant melanoma which was diagnosed six months ago and I don’t know what symptoms to look for to know when things are getting really bad and he should be in the hospice. No one has given me a guide of what to look for, know he’s sleeping a lot and doesn’t really want any food. He doesn’t have any pain which I’m very grateful for but I just don’t know what to do, every day he’s sleeping more and more and I don’t know if that’s normal or should I be panicking about it. I just really need some advice please. 

  • Dear Linda06,

    Thank you for getting in touch with us, and welcome to our online community. My name is Annerose I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses here at the Macmillan Cancer Support line.

    I am very sorry to hear about your husband diagnosis. Caring for someone with a terminal illness can be difficult and I understand your concerns.

    You have mentioned the hospice Linda06. Do you and you husband get any support or input from the local palliative care team? They are specialist nurses looking after people with an incurable illness and their family, and usually work form the local hospice.

    If your husband has not been referred yet, we would advise for you to contact the GP or the hospital team to ask for a referral to the local palliative care team. They can support you both during this difficult time and explain what to expect and who to contact if you have any concern.

    It is not unusual for someone with a terminal illness to eat less and sleep more in the last weeks of life.

    It can be very upsetting to think about the end of life of someone we love dearly. Why don’t you give us a call Linda and speak with one of us nurses directly, it sometimes helps to talk about your worried and concerns.

    We are here 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm on 0808 808 0000, please don’t hesitate to get back o touch.

    I hope this has been helpful, but please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you need any further information or support.

    Best wishes and take care, 

    Annerose (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist) 

    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. 

    Ref/  AW/AM

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