We are struggling to find tracheostomy trained carers to offer some respite for us. My partner has terminal head and neck cancer and relies on a tracheostomy to breathe. At the moment the both of us are unable to get a restful night's sleep as I will have to help him to change the cannula and help with deep suction if needed. I am worried about leaving him alone as he has fallen twice already rushing to the bathroom- one time we had to go into A&E via ambulance.
Not sure how we are going to manage over the next few months as his condition deteriorates. I feel that if I can just get some sleep it would help us both in getting to all his hospital appointments and somehow managing through the day.
I have tried calling round to several care agencies and unfortunately have not had any luck in finding one that has trained staff. Even when we attend appointments in hospital for chemo I am asked to stay as the nurses don't feel comfortable managing his trache care. Feel like I can't leave my partner alone for one minute and we are both struggling.
Does any one have any contacts for care organisations that have tracheostomy trained staff that might be able to provide care over night? Or any other ideas for respite- we are willing to try anything.
