Unfortunately Ray isn't doing so well. I keep thinking back to his RC when he was walking up and down the ward 3 times a day on the 3rd day and fit to leave hospital on day 7 . This time he has shuffled from bed to chair only on day5. He is suffering from paralytic how is which many of you will know about and is vomiting so they've put him back on a drip and nil by mouth. The dreaded ng tube is ready if they need it. He's really suffering with the new stoma 2 nephrostomy tubes and the hernia repair and I can't get anywhere near. His mood is not too great either. I knew it would be hard but comfort on the phone is just not enough. Sorry for the self pity in my voice I'm finding it very hard to cope. Thanks for listening
Hi Jenny. It is understandable how you are feeling. Not being able to be with Ray must be really hard, and it must be hard for him not having any visitors. Still early days yet and although he is having a tough time of it, he is in the best place and will be very well looked after. Best wishes.
Sorry to hear this JennyJJ. Almost harder for the one left helpless at home than the patient. x Hope things improve for Ray soon. x
Hello Jenny
Ray's experience is all too familiar to me and I really feel for both of you. These set backs can be very disheartening - for the patient, you just want it to end. For the carer, you feel utterly helpless and frustrated (said Mrs CB when I was being treated for sepsis with three drains, a nephrostomy, a nasal tube and being fed and medicated via a PICC line never mind a new stoma).
After two weeks of this, I reached the point where I'd stopped caring about the outcome so long as the discomfort ended. Then I reminded myself of a line from my favourite film and told my self to 'Get busy living' and I recovered.
Looking back, it was my lowest point in the whole experience and now it's over three years and the new normal life continues. I wish you both all the best for Ray's recovery which will take some time yet.
If you need to chat to someone about this situation, Macmillan Buddies can help or the folks at Reading Bladder Cancer Support Group Trust. Or just come here to sound off, it's what we are all here for, to help one another through the tough times of diagnosis and treatment.
CB
I may appear to be listening but in my head I'm all at sea.
Hi Jane, today has been a better day I think. He has been walking around but the bowel is still not working properly. He has an NG but they haven't to empty it for 24 hours. He is managing to drink the disgu sting protein drinks and is feeling stronger. It was scary over the weekend as his heart started playing up but they sorted it. I know there will still be bad days but hope the worst is over. The Consultant keeps telling him that he had a triple whammy, severe infection, hernia repair and a new i leal conduit. No wonder the bowel is sulking. Hope you remain well love Jenny
Great news Jenny. Hopefully upwards and onwards now. xxx
Hi Jenny,I do hope Ray continues to improve,he has been through so much.I am very tired,back caring for my mother but it is exhausting.I’m ok apart from that.Love and best wishes.Jane xx
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007