my dad has grade 4 brain cancer

Hi Myhero,

My husband has a grade 4 brain cancer too. He is now in a hospital bed in the living room and has carers twice a day. He unfortunately has severe mobility problems and can now only use a commode. He also hates it, but needs must. He is still scared he will topple over, although I am always there to help him. Its not a job anyone wants to sign up for, but its just life.

I can understand your dad not wanting to use it, because its not very dignified, but if it helps your mum to feel more at ease, then sadly he should give it a try. We are at a slightly different stage to your mum and dad, because my husband has mentioned going into a home or even hospice although originally he wanted to stay at home. This change of mind is mainly because of the fear of falling. He has had falls in the past and slid off the bed only last week. I can't move him myself and had to call an ambulance out because he had hurt his ribs.

Its a very difficult decision for your mum and dad to make, and I haven't really helped, except to say to try and convince your dad to use the commode a few times. He might just be able to stay at home for a little longer if he does.

Best wishes to you all,

Llamalover xx

Hi again,

Depending on how mobile your dad is, is there any chance of installing a stair lift? We have one, which was a great help until these last few weeks.

Hi Myhero,

My husband has a grade 4 brain cancer too. He is now in a hospital bed in the living room and has carers twice a day. He unfortunately has severe mobility problems and can now only use a commode. He also hates it, but needs must. He is still scared he will topple over, although I am always there to help him. Its not a job anyone wants to sign up for, but its just life.

I can understand your dad not wanting to use it, because its not very dignified, but if it helps your mum to feel more at ease, then sadly he should give it a try. We are at a slightly different stage to your mum and dad, because my husband has mentioned going into a home or even hospice although originally he wanted to stay at home. This change of mind is mainly because of the fear of falling. He has had falls in the past and slid off the bed only last week. I can't move him myself and had to call an ambulance out because he had hurt his ribs.

Its a very difficult decision for your mum and dad to make, and I haven't really helped, except to say to try and convince your dad to use the commode a few times. He might just be able to stay at home for a little longer if he does.

Best wishes to you all,

Llamalover xx