Hi
some of you might know my reasons for joining the online community.
my poor dear brother 42 diagnosed terminal cancer 18 months ago bowel liver and lung.
The past 5 weeks he’s suffered with escities. He had a drainage 3 weeks ago and was told it could be weeks or months.
Tuesday he has been rushed into hospital due to dehydration.
Since then he has been suffering with panic attacks. Last night he was pacing around his home and was confused. He is scared of dying and doesn’t want to die alone.
he lives 3 hours away from us family but today my parents have gone to stay with him for the foreseeable.
Today he was taken back into hospital- he is currently still in. He needs another drainage.
I know he has fought so hard but his fight is nearly over. I just don’t want him to be scared
sorry for my rambles!!
Hi
What a terribly hard time for your brother and your family. Im sure you have already looked into the below but food for thought.....
Have his fears been discussed with his Drs or caregivers? there are many meds out there to help reduce his anxiety such as benzodiazepines, SSRI's, although metabolism at this stage could be an issue etc.
He may already be on some or not chooses not to alter his current state of alertness but worth thinking about
hoping you find a helpful solution to assist with his totally natural fears......
Hi
So sorry to hear that . It sounds wise for your parents to now be with him .I notice you mentioned he is having episodes of confusion . The liver enzymes etc might be responsible for his altered state and anxiety. Is the palliative care team involved as they are great at sorting out these aspects and treating the whole person from all aspects .
https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_experiences/supporting-someone-with-incurable-cancer-forum
You might find some useful information from others on this thread if that is of any help to you . Our helpline staff have access to Macmillan nurses who would be able to give you some guidance on this next stage .0808 808 0000.
https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_experiences/ask_the_expert/ask_a_nurse
Through the week we have an area where you can ask a nurse questions if that’s required . Particularly about pain management and supporting him emotionally.
Always here to listen too .
Court
Helpline Number 0808 808 0000
Thank you for your message. He is still in hospital as he needs more fluid to be drained. My parents are meeting oncologist tomorrow with my brother.
They told my parents today that the reason for his anxiety is due to excess fluid pressing on his lungs, it makes him breathless and then panics. My parents were with him last weekend and had to rush there yesterday. In a week has shocked them. Before he leaves hospital a clear palliative care plan will be put in place.
Does it sound strange that I want to know how he is feeling, I want to know when it will be.
Sorry if I phrased that wrong. However cancer has, I was simply meaning I don’t want it to take over his mental health xx
Totally understand what you are saying . It’s painful to watch . You only want the very best for him in a difficult situation.
Much love ,
Court x.
Helpline Number 0808 808 0000
Make sure you look after your mental health too. Xx
Thank you ive been signed signed off by my doctor. I didn’t want to be, but my boss who knows my family professionally and as a friend of my family told me I must. My work have been a great support and the team I work with are just super outstanding! I can not begin to explain the love and support they have given me. In August we did a 10k walking in Brighton for cancer research and my brother was our biggest supporter! So I’m very lucky to have so much support. I don’t know what the next few weeks will bring but life is precious and my family will make sure he has the best Christmas possible!
thank you all for your kind works.
Hi ,
Not directly . I noticed they previously joined up with Macmillan in one area so the helpline staff might have more information. 0808 808 0000.
Sounds like a good idea though .
take care ,
Court
Helpline Number 0808 808 0000
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