glioblastoma stage 3/4

Hi, in all honesty, radiotherapy is 6 weeks, daily visits to hospital, and depending on your mother's condition, she might need a lot of help and support, physical and psychological. In all honesty again, GBM can be very quick, and that means extra support might well be needed. 

Thank you for your reply ️

Hi Missiona

welcome to the online community. Apologies for the delay in reaching out. I am so sorry to hear about your mum.

My husband (now 52) was diagnosed with GBM4 in Sept 2020. I'll be honest - this is the rollercoaster ride from hell for everyone. That said a lot will depend on what immediate impact the tumour has had on your mum and what they've said the prognosis is. In my husband's case his tumour was in the area of the brain controlling speech, language and understanding. Physically he's still in great shape. Mentally not so.

The 6 weeks of treatment is exhausting. He went through it in Oct/Nov 2020 and by 3 or 4 weeks in the fatigue hit and lasted for about a month afterwards. At the bare minimum, I'd suggest coming home for that period of time at least. It'll then give you time with your mum and time to assess if she needs you to stay longer. 

We were given an initial timeframe of 12-15 months. That has expired and my husband is still physically fit. He's a marathon runner and still runs 50 miles a week. In some respects he's been lucky that the tumour hasn't had a huge physical impact as running is his primary focus now in life. As a family, we just take each day as it comes. Some days are easier than others.

I'd also suggest writing down all the questions and concerns you have about your mum's health and the expectations for the future and then have a chat with her medical team. If you don't write them down, its very easy to become overwhelmed at these appointments.

This group and the Glioblastoma multiforme brain tumour - Macmillan Online Community and Carers only forum - Macmillan Online Community have been a huge support for me over the past 15 months. There's always someone around who gets it and is there to listen or to even offer a virtual hug. It’s always good to talk so remember you can also call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, emotional support, benefit and financial guidance or just a listening ear.

I hope some of this has been helpful. In the midst of all of this please take time to look after yourself. It's a lot for you to take in too here and to cope with. Taking time to catch up with friends for a coffee or to go for a walk to simply to sit and read a book with a coffee is essential to help you get through this. Trust me.

sending you a huge virtual hug. Stay strong. Stay positive.

love n hugs

Wee Me xx