My daughter is going on her 9th year of treatment nonstop. She is very tired and very depressed. They have now put her on Etoposide (oral) and she is so sick. She is in Tn. and I am in La. If she doesnt want me to come, how do I help her. The next treatment would be a trial.
Dear La Mother
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. My name is Joanne and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses Specialist.
From your post I can see that both you and your daughter are in America. As a UK charity and registered professional, we are only able to give information and support that is relevant to UK healthcare systems. I will however try to help you find support organisations in your country.
The American Cancer Society have a 24/7 helpline which may be able to offer information and emotional support. There is also the National Cancer Institute website where you can find out information on treatment options including clinical trials.
I can only imagine how difficult the last 9 years of constant treatment have been for you and your daughter. It isn’t surprising that she is tired and depressed. It must also be challenging for you trying to support her from a distance. It’s important that both of you seek support for your emotional wellbeing. This can from your family doctor or local support groups. Your daughter may be able to access psychological support as part of her treatment.
I also note that you mention your daughter is “so sick” with her current chemotherapy. If this is new or worsening, we would always encourage her to report this to her treatment team using the contact details she will have been given.
I’m sorry I’m not able to give you more detailed answers to how to support your daughter but as I’m sure you can appreciate every country has its own healthcare systems and we are unable to advise on anything outside the UK.
Best wishes
Joanne
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.
Our Ref: JF/GHi
