Severe MS, wheel chair/bed bound and now terminal Cancer

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Hi everyone, I’m seeking advice on the best care options for my father-in-law. He has severe MS, is completely bed-bound, and now has terminal cancer. The hospital is considering discharging him home, but we’re worried his current care package won’t be enough, especially as he’ll need regular pain relief and more support as his condition worsens.

We're exploring options like hospice care or NHS Continuing Healthcare funding for nursing support at home or in a care facility. Unfortunately, his referral to a hospice was declined because he's not "sick enough" yet, but his disability and terminal condition are still overwhelming.

If anyone has been through a similar situation or has advice on how to get appropriate care, including palliative support or funding assistance, I’d really appreciate any guidance! 

Thank you in advance for any help or advice.

  • Hi  and welcome to the Macmillan Community but so sorry to hear about your in law.

    I have no first hand experience as I am the one in our family who has an incurable cancer.

    When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your father in law and indeed yourself you may benefit from joining and posting in our dedicated……

    Carers only 

    and

    Supporting someone with incurable cancer

    ……. support groups where you will connect with a wide range of members navigating the exact same support challenges.

    You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 as this service provides practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.

    We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow 3 working days for a reply.

    Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing and support all the family.

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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  • He Adam77, it's so saddening to read your story, an all too familiar one I'm sorry to say, I read about your own problems on another forum and wish you well with finding the right surgeon. Adam, I have terminal cancer and many co-morbidities as well and I saw my GP to get a referral to the district nurses and the hospice palliative care team, though I am lucky not too need the PC team too much, they are always there when I need them, my district nurse sources any specialist care i need, equipment and aids and they will support the carer as well and they have told me when i need more support it will be there for me. I hope they can do the same for you and your father in law, best wishes to you both,

    Eddie