The person I’m caring for was only diagnosed 2 weeks ago but he has a very fast growing and massive tumour in his stomach and upper GI tract which has metastasised to his liver and is occluding the pancreas and one kidney. His deterioration has been rapid but in the last 3 days it has been terrifying and very noticeable, something huge has changed and he has eaten one tablespoon of yogurt and one strawberry in that time. He won’t drink the Ensure. He’s supposed to have 3 a day but has one every other day. I know he’s the one that’s ill, but I’m the one who is responsible for him. He also won’t talk to anyone except me. I’m caring for him 24/7. And this is where I need to rant-I persuaded him to call the acute oncology hotline that we were told to ring if there were any worries and I listened to him totally play down his deterioration and actually lie about his food intake. I understand he wants to avoid hospital, he got an infection there two weeks ago and was in a very bad way. But now I feel like I’m not allowed to feelings about the situation, or any input, and if that’s the case I’m just reduced to a maid. I cried and told him I’m scared and overwhelmed and he completely shut down. I’m staying full time at his house but today I honestly feel like going home. I’m not a doctor and I need support with the acceleration of his symptoms.
