I have breast cancer and I am hitting a dead wall in trying to access help in the home after my surgery. My surgery is being done as a day case so I will be home but very incapacitated. No one seems to know how we get some sort of help for my husband while I am recovering. My husband has heart failure, cancer of the bowel, liver, lungs and spine.
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Hi Patp
My name is Marla; I am a nurse on the Information and Support Line with Marie Curie. I am so sorry both you and your husband are going through such difficult and challenging health issues at the same time together. It must feel very overwhelming for you both.
What help are you looking for? Is it day to day meal preparation, cleaning, washing etc. Is it personal care for your husband such as washing and dressing, or all the above? You have said your husband is terminal, are the local or hospital palliative care team involved in his care? If so, they should be able to guide and signpost you and how to get support. Contact your local Social Services department for advice and to ask for support in achieving this.
Your breast nurse and/or GP should also be able to offer guidance, support and be able to signpost you. You can also contact us here on the Information and Support Line to ask questions or for a safe space to talk about your concerns more in-depth on 0800 090 2309 if that would be more helpful. You can of course continue to post on the Online Community; we also have a Companion over the Phone service that you may find helpful.
I have attached some links below that may be of help to you. I hope you have found this response helpful. Take care.
Marla
Palliative care team | Who can help with a terminal illness | Marie Curie
Social care telephone helplines and forums - Social care and support guide - NHS