Hi, I'm new to the group. My Mum was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer of the ureter in January. On 1st March she had radical surgery to remove her left kidney and associated tubes. For 74 years young she's making a remarkable recovery.
Last week the surgeon called to say the cancer was grade 4 and aggressive and they'd found it also in the removed kidney. In order to treat any rogue cells and to be sure the cancer had gone, she is going to undergo Chemo. We're just waiting for a call from the Oncologist.
My Dad is 78 and is doing so well looking after Mum; I've been working full time from home from their house since Mum came out of hospital (I took annual leave her first week at home), whilst also looking after my 5 year old daughter.
Dad has asked me questions about the Chemo and I've tried to answer to the best of my knowledge. I'd like to prepare Mum's body for the onslaught of Chemo so she is in the fittest possible state. I've been told about increasing Vit C and D levels, taking probiotics for her tummy and herbal remedies to help with platelets. I really don't know quite what to do? I feel pretty scared if I'm honest, I'm an only child and am trying to hold things together but sometimes I'm struggling. My partner is not the greatest support and I've found more support from my Team Leader at work.
I'm sorry for such a lengthy post and thank you for reading but at 49 years old I suddenly feel lost and lonely.
Samantha (Sam)
Hi Sam and warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community although sorry that you had to find us and especially sorry to hear about your mum’s diagnosis.
You do need to check in with your mum’s clinical team before using any supplements, herbal products and probiotics as some products can reduce the effectiveness of some chemos.
Talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer treatment journey will help you navigate this challenging time.
The Community is organised into support groups so can I recommend you join our supportive Kidney cancer group as this will be a good place to connect with patients and families navigating the same type of cancer journey.
To join a group just click on the link above then choose 'click to join' or 'join' (depending on the device you're using) on the page that opens.
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘New Thread’ or hit the box with the X on the top right (phones), you could just copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
Talking with others caring for family and friends will help a lot so do check out our Family and friends and Carers only groups as you will connect with others walking the same journey supporting family and friends through their cancer journey.
It’s always good to talk and the Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here to see what is available and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers can be found on our Online Information and Support Section.
((hugs))
