Hello,
Last year my mum was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and in December, doctors discovered metastasis in her brain, likely affecting two areas. The first time I called A&E, she had a seizure that initially looked like a stroke. It began with aphasia, followed by a loss of consciousness. She was put on steroids, but this caused paranoia and aggression. After undergoing brain radiotherapy, the doctors advised stopping the steroids, which led to a second seizure, epilepsy, and another episode of loss of consciousness.
Since yesterday, she's become extremely agitated, aggressive, and unpredictable. She's also experiencing significant memory loss and confusion, along with difficulty understanding what's happening around her. I find myself counting the minutes until she takes her sleeping pills to help calm her. She lives alone in another country, and I've decided to move in with her during this time to care for her.
I've spoken to her doctor, who has recommended chemotherapy and immunotherapy. However, my mum refuses to go to a hospice or accept additional care. I can't continue living with her long-term, and I'm struggling to cope with the aggression and the overall situation. I don't want to make her feel any more unhappy than she already does, but I'm at a loss about how to handle her temper tantrums, ensure her safety, and manage the situation overall, especially since she can't live on her own anymore.
I would really appreciate any advice or suggestions. Thank you.
Hi Popken
Sorry to hear about what you are both going through. I know with both myself and my wife our families ended up having to make the decision that we were not able to provide the care our fathers needed so totally understand the feelings of not being able to cope on our own.
You say your mum lives in another country too, that must make things that much more complex. We do have a group on Living with cancer outside the UK forum and I wonder if there is anything that might be of help there.
<<hugs>>
Steve
