Hi my brother is 62 had months of chemotherapy for oesophageal cancer unfortunately hadn’t worked So surgery not done now on palliative chemotherapy. He has a stent in position, has lost about 6 stone in weight and managing toast , milky coffee and very small meals . Has seen a dietician supplements prescribed but not keen on taste of them.
He has had first palliative chemo( couldn't have 2 as not fit enough) this week has vomited for about 48 hours. Gp initially after speaking to oncology unit left a prescription for more antiemetic tablets!
Today gp visited realised how poorly he is , sister in law has had no input from any palliative care team members / community nurses/ Mac nurse etc. GP has asked for some support for sister in law but told no!
They have had no assessment of needs , phycological support , equipment needs, etc. I am shocked as we can see he is getting to end stage and has weeks to live. They live in a rural area. Surely they shouldn’t be so unsupported?
Thank goodness he is pain free at present apart from constant belching which causes sleep deprivation . How do I help both of them?
Hi
I'm sorry to hear how poorly your brother is and it's natural that you want to do all you can to help him and your sister-in-law.
You mention that your sister-in-law has not had any contact from any palliative team members. Do you know if your brother has been referred to them? The referral would normally be done by your brother's GP or his consultant. You also say that the GP has had support for your sister-in-law refused which I would think is very unusual. If you click on this link about support from health and social care professionals you can read about all the services that should be available and that your brother's GP will usually co-ordinate this.
It might be helpful if you phone the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 0000 and speak to one of the cancer information advisors. It's free to call and they're available from 8am to 8pm every day of the week. They should be able to give you more advice on what practical help your brother can access.
You might also like to join the supporting someone with incurable cancer group where you can talk about your emotions as well as discuss practical issues about palliative care.
x
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