Hi,
My stepdad has been diagnosed with a meningioma and has started SRT last week for 3 weeks of treatment.
I understand that side effects are intense few the first 2 months then reduces. I have read so much about the condition and the side effects.
I have moved in with him to help look after him, but I have git dog walkers and pet sitters in to prevent his dogs going into kennels as they keep him going. I have planned carers in the day when I am at work. I have bought food and high protein soups for when he gets difficulty eating and mouth ulcers.
Yesterday after his treatment he had a seizure, luckily he was at the hospital. He went into respiratory distress as well. I rushed to hospital and he is in HDu with high flow oxygen. He will be in for a few days I have been told.
I am due to go to italy on Sunday, but I feel I need to be around as he only has me. I know I need a break but I am happy to concentrate on him for a few months. But I also feel guilty about letting my partner down who is already in italy, I don't think I would be relaxing on holiday and if he worsens I want be with him at the hospital.
What should I do??
Hi Natty1001 and a very warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but sorry to hear about your stepdad’s diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis 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 or support challenges will help you a lot…….
I have a completely different type of cancer and treatment journey….. but honestly the decision to do on holiday is unfortunately a decision that only you can make.
This New to Community area is like our reception desk where we try to direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our……
……. support groups. These groups are safe places 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 support journey.
As for the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your stepdad and indeed yourself you may benefit from joining and posting in our……
Supporting someone with incurable cancer….. (if this is appropriate)
……. support groups where you will connect with a wide range of members navigating the exact same support challenges.
To connect with a group click on the “Bold Italic Links” I have created above …… then once the group page opens click in the [ Black - Click to Join - Banner ] that appears at the bottom of the page and this will then confirm that you have joined the group.
When you are ready……. you can introduce yourself by putting up your very own post by clicking [ + Create new post] or [ + ] in the top right of the group page.
You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
It is an emotional time supporting family so you might find this Macmillan information your feelings when someone has cancer helpful as well as this link getting help with your emotions.
You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing and support all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
