Hi all,
I've signed up for this because my 83 year old mum has just found she's got a bladder tumour that the oncologist describes as aggressive. Until 4 weeks ago she was fit and well, not taking any medication. Now she's struggling to walk more than a few steps. Partly through the tiredness that is expected. But the biggest problem is having a catheter.
She worries about it a lot, especially as we've had several incidents with it. She hasn't been able to empty the bag herself so mostly i do it. And If she needs to get up in the night I help her deal with the night bag. Either cos she needs to go to the toilet or, usually, cos she can't sleep & wants to sit in an armchair. Must admit this is making me pretty tired, & trying to keep up full time job. I've decided to cash in a personal pension that will let me reduce hours so that should help. But it feels as if we're pretty much left on our own to work out how to manage the catheter. We've had help from district nurses but there are so many practical issues that happen when there's no one to advise or help. I've learnt a lot from browsing what others have said about catheters here & elsewhere online.
On top of this she had a nephrostomy (tube to drain kidney) cos tumour blocking ureter. But it fell out & we've no date for it to be replaced. Can't help worrying kidney will be getting more damaged the longer she doesn't have it.
She's having the last of her 3 radiotherapy sessions tomorrow. Then wait for side effects to develop & subside. Review in 6 weeks. Meantime, I do all I can to support her & keep praying.
Thanks
Hi Mudshine and welcome to the group, although sorry to hear about your mum. Good on you for caring for her. I know how difficult and tiring it can be. Radiotherapy can bring on fatigue after the treatment, so you may need to prepare for that. Mum will be very tired. I've only had experience with hospital catheters, so maybe someone else may be able to help there. The nephrostomy tube sounds a bit disturbing as you say and needs chasing up. Has your Mum been allocated a designated CNS (cancer/clinical nurse specialist) ? These are the usual first stop for help and advise, but unfortunately many have been redirected to other duties owing to covid. I hope all goes well. Best wishes.
