My 65 year old sister has bowel cancer & had an ileostomy approximately 4 weeks ago. She was discharged 4 days post op. She lives on her own & the after effects of surgery are having a devastating effect on both her mental & physical health. The stoma became infected & as it had shrunk the bags she was sent home with no longer fit effectively & because of Covid19 the Stoma Nurse was unable to visit until 2 days ago & said that due to staff shortages she wouldn't be able to attend again. My sister has recently received a letter from the Onclogist containing technical information none of the family understand only to say that the cancer has spread. She is due to commence Chemo/Radiotherapy on the 20th July & is totally devastated by the whole experience so far. Can't get any help from any medical professionals about either her physical or mental wellbeing. She feels she has been "dumped" back @ home far too soon post op. It is heartbreaking to see her in this state & be unable to help effectively. Whatever the reasons the family feel the aftercare she's received is appalling. Unfortunately she is unable to access online services due to not being computer literate.
Please reply & help her Macmillan!
Hi ,
sorry to hear about your sister and the problems she is having, perhaps the best bet for her would be to ring the helpline here 0808 808 0000, it is open 8am to 8pm and a free phone call from landlines.
If there is anything we can do to help you too? Often people find with a little help themselves we can make a difference. While with covid you cannot be there in person it might still help to look at Looking after someone with cancer.
<<hugs>>
Steve
