On the 1st of June my husband (49) was diagnosed with stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma in his ear canal. On the 19th of June we were told it's inoperable and he may have 12 months left. In 2 weeks he will be starting radiotherapy for 6 weeks. We have been given all the details and side effects. Was just wondering if anyone had any practical advice on how best to support him. He is in a lot of pain and his medication has been upped but it has floored him. His hearing has gone on the right side, the facial nerve is damaged and his bottom lip doesn't move and his eye doesn't blink. Would be grateful for any advice or tips.
Hi Casso and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your husbands SCC diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type and support challenges can help a lot.
As you have seen the Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) snd I do see that you have already joined our dedicated Skin cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family members who are navigating the same journey.
When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting family and friends you may also benefit from joining our Carers only and Supporting someone with incurable cancer support groups where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
To connect with a group click on the “Bold Links” I have created above then once the group page opens you can then put up your own post when you’re ready by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post. You can also scroll through other members posts and click “Reply” to get involved.
It’s a challenging time for you so you may want to use the Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provide cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
