Hello Claire and welcome to the forum, I am so sorry to hear about your dad and know how difficult and emotional this The first thing you should do is prepare for dad coming home. Get in touch with the hospital and GP surgery to arrange the palliative care team, carers and nurses to arrange when to visit and what equipment and supplies he may need, Order any medicines you may need to be delivered in plenty of time and contact your local hospice to ask how they can help ,If you have all this in place before your dad comes home it will make your job a little less difficult. Claire i have looked after three loved ones and it demands a lot from you physically and especially emotionally which is why it is so important to get support, We all find a way to care for a loved one and i am sure you will too. The nurses and carers will support you as much as they can and will answer any questions you have. Claire don't forget to think of yourself give yourself a little time to relax and recharge and it will benefit you and what you can do your your dad, please take care.
Thanks for the reply, appreciate your advice. Dad is already known to the community nurses and palliative team, we have some equipment already (hospital bed etc). We aren't having carers coming in, as a carer for over 20yrs I would find it very difficult to watch someone else care for a loved one.
My partner is an amazing support to me and we have good family and friends around us.
It's great to hear that you have such a supportive partner around you. Caring for a loved one is so tough, both emotionally and physically. I'm sure your dad feels very cared for being at home with you. Remember to be kind to yourself too - make sure you take breaks when you can. Wishing you all the strength and comfort possible in this difficult time
Thank you for your kind words. I'm learning to take some time for me, it's not an easy thing for me to do lol. Iv recently discovered colouring in (fond childhood memories) and I get lost in my picture.
Glad to hear you're finding little ways to take time for yourself, Claire - even something simple like coloring can make a difference. Wishing you and your dad all the best as you spend this precious time together.
