Hi guys, my brother was diagnosed with cancer around 5 weeks ago. Two weeks ago we were told he had Aml. He's in hospital for 6 weeks. Today they found he had a mini heart attack so he can't start intensive chemo. He's 65 but packed in smoking about 10 weeks ago. Our mum died of lung cancer 8 years ago and our dad to his 2nd heart attack at 50 years in 1983. I'm his next of kin and I'm at my wits end. I'm hoping I speak to his consultant tomorrow. But is he gonna survive this? He's fit and well walked everywhere but smoked all his life till he got ill. Mostly cannabis as well. I just need to know wtf is gonna happen, I feel totally overwhelmed. Thank you.
Hi Candycane211199 and welcome to this corner of the Community although I am always sorry to see folks joining us and to hear about your brother and indeed about your family history.
I am Mike and I keep an eye on our various Blood Cancer groups.
I don’t have Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) but for some context I was diagnosed way back in 1999 at 43 with a rare (8 in a million) incurable but treatable type of Cutaneous T-Cell NHL (a type of slow growing Low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma) ……. eventually reaching Stage 4a in late 2013 when a second, also rare (4 in a million) type of aggressive Peripheral T-Cell NHL (a type of fast growing High-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma) was then presenting so although my blood cancer ‘type’ is different I most definitely appreciate the challenges of this journey rather well.
Let’s look for group members to pick up on your post and get back to you.
Let's look for you to get some clear indication as to the way forward for his treatment..... having heart issues can be a challenge as from my first hand experience these strong chemos do put a lot of stress on the heart.
As for the practical and emotional challenges of supporting your brother and indeed yourself you may also benefit from joining and posting in our general community……
Carers only (if you are their caregiver)
……. support groups where you will connect with a wide range of members navigating the exact same support challenges.
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.
For good information do check out Leukaemia Care UK who produce very good information and run various support platforms including their Buddy Scheme, they also have a Support Line on 08088 010 444
You may also want to check to see if you have a Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing.
Always around to help more or just to chat ((hugs))
