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Update on Nan
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We have been given the devastating news that her uterine cancer is terminal. The tumour is just too massive and thus inoperable. Radiotherapy is not an option as she is just too weak. We have been told that she hasn't got much time option of going home or going to a hospice.
Could anybody tell us what we can expect in the final days and hours and what we can do to make her as comfortable as possible? X
Could anybody tell us what we can expect in the final days and hours and what we can do to make her as comfortable as possible? X
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For more on marking an answer as the "Best Answer", please visit our FAQ.Macmillan have a thing called Hospice at home, which means that Macmillan careres and Sitters are available. Aides can be brought into the home such as a hospital bed with sides, a commode, sitters to sit with her whilst you get some sleep, washed and dressed , etc., they were very good to my brother in law when he was terminally ill and gave emotional support for the loved ones. They are there not only until death but also advice as to what to do when the final time comes. Macmillan Nurses seem to have a lot of clout, social workers are okay but at the end of the day Macmillan, if anything is needed they can supply. Good luck and just remember all you can do apart from this is to know that you are doing the best you can . It is better for someone to die at home amongst loved ones in the comfort of their own home especially when all the help is there,go on give Macmillan a call I am sure you will not regret it.
If Nan wants to die at home, then Macmillan have a thing called Hospice at home. They can provide things to make her more comfortable,provide a sitters service around the clock to allow loved ones to do household chores that need to be done, your own toileting etc, and offer emotional support not only during this sad time but afterwards. They can tell you what to expect and how to go about things. Just be with Nan and if she gets irritable just remember to stay calm. Hopefully she will be pain free and if not help will be at hand should she need it. God Bless you at this time I will be thinking of you and your family.
NoM, we are so sorry to hear this news. All the advice you've had already would be what I'd say - but if she needs the hospice in-patient care, that is so good - equal to the MacMillan care at home, but with everything to hand, and a positive approach, with care for families as well as for your Nan herself.
Bearing in mind what mamya said - gentle hugs to you all, from me and nibble.
Bearing in mind what mamya said - gentle hugs to you all, from me and nibble.
So sorry Nom, from a practical point of view I can't add anything to the excellent advice that you've already been given by Mamy and others and agree with MacMillan as being the very best of organisaitons and people who work within it, truly amazing, but I do just want to add that my thoughts are with you all. Take care of yourselves and as long as you are there for your Nan to back her wishes up you are doing the right thing. so sorry. XXX
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NoM,,you have already been given the best advice by these lovely people here; I can only endorse what they have said. My thoughts are with you, your family and Nan. It is a most distressing time for you all,but when the time comes,it will be a blessed relief for Nan; I send all best wishes to you all.xxx
Sorry to intrude - I'm usually in Q & P - but your heading caught my eye.
I would say that the important thing is for her to be comfortable in her mind; what does she want? But I can honestly say that hospice care is utterly amazing; I volunteer at our local hospice, and the nursing staff are in a class of their own. There should also be chaplaincy care and counselling available for everyone concerned. Best wishes to all of you.
I would say that the important thing is for her to be comfortable in her mind; what does she want? But I can honestly say that hospice care is utterly amazing; I volunteer at our local hospice, and the nursing staff are in a class of their own. There should also be chaplaincy care and counselling available for everyone concerned. Best wishes to all of you.