Hi,
I'm not sure if this is the right place to post, but given that brain cancer is one form of cancer that she is suffering from, I thought I'd start here.
My mother-in-law is receiving palliative care for various forms of cancer at present. Given her prognosis, she's hoping to do a little bit of travelling over the next month or so with family whilst she's still physically able to do so. The issue she has is that she is also primary care provider for my father-in-law, who has recently been diagnosed with Parkinsons. They have carers coming in several times a day to help him, but he's pretty much house-bound, and isn't able to move from his chair / bed, etc, without assistance. In short, he needs somebody there with him most of the day.
With a view to myself, my wife, and our kids, taking her away for ~2 or 3 nights, we're exploring the possibility of respite care for my father-in-law for the duration of the trip. With this in mind, I'm wondering whether anybody is aware of any support available in this situation? I get that it's an unusual one, but we'd ideally have the rest of us with her for the trip, otherwise I would volunteer to stay behind. Practically, I'd need to be driver / look after the children whilst my wife and her mum spent time doing some activities together.
Any ideas / suggestions much appreciated!
HI Kieran
a warm welcome to the online community. Sorry to hear about all that you and your family are going through right now.
I'm supporting my husband through his stage 4 brain tumour journey so know only too well how beneficial a break can be.
I'm no expert in respite care but as a first port of call, have you spoken to your father-in-law's GP? There may be some caring support available locally that they can arrange.
There is some detailed info on the NHS website that might be helpful. Here's the link
Carers' breaks and respite care - Social care and support guide - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
I also found these links that may be of some help
Respite Care - Parkinson’s Care and Support UK (parkinsonscare.org.uk)
Looking after yourself when you're a carer | Parkinson's UK (parkinsons.org.uk)
This is a safe and supportive space so I'm sure some of the others will be along shortly to share their words of wisdom.
You could also reach out to MacMIllan via the helpine to see if they can suggest any other options here. The number is below.
I hope you manage to get something arranged and the your wife and her mum manage to make some special memories while they can.
Love n hugs
Wee Me xx
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