Bob has pancreatic cancer and cancer most likely at the top of the large bowel. We didn't know what to do or how to journey on. The myeloma was totally livable so why does Bob have to have another cancer? I have all the accusations and fingers that I was ready to point along with the harshest words I could muster. However Bob says why? We can't change anything and what good would it do? Near the end of Oct. Bob was back in hospital. This time on Unit 47 which is palliative cancer care ward. Here the main objective was still pain control. Bob was in 10 days. When we left we were under the palliative care umbrella. This meant being cut loose from Tom Baker Cancer Care. That was super hard as Bob had been cared for by so many different people and professions for the past ten years. In my mind I could picture an astronaut who is floating outside the space ship on the end of the long air hose. Floating secure in what we know. Then Pftttttt the hose is cut and you are on your own, nothing tangible to hold on to and wanting to be secure and cared for. We do not have a relationship with the pain clinic. Yikes!!!!! We are done with the oncologists. The reality was tough to deal with emotionally.
In come the wonderful nurses of the palliative care team. That is their calling to care for those who have terminal diseases or any other terminal situations. It took me a while to be trusting and all in. They come with computers logged in to history along with anything new done by our family doctor. Our family doc is now the go to for everything. The nurses have stethoscopes, bandages, creams, etc, etc. They are well prepared and they come to us!!!!! They spend time, at least an hour each visit. Our nurse comes once a week but if needed would come more often. They are on call 24/7 even on Christmas!!! There is also a palliative doctor on call 24/7. This group of nurses have truly proven themselves trustworthy and efficient. Our regular nurse is Terri and she is impressive.
The pain Bob has is pretty much well controlled. He is on methadone with hydromorphon for break thru. Bob is sleeping pretty much all the time. He still easily walks around the condo. He uses a walker for longer stints and often in the condo as well. He is still showering on his own and uses a bath chair. The idea of home care coming in to help him hasn't yet found a positive response. Sadly Bob is eating very little but will drink Boost or Ensure.
Today we had a visit with our family doc to get all of Bob's prescriptions renewed. The methadone has to come from the palliative doctor. Anyhow Dr. G gave Bob 3 months supply. Now that was hopeful and encouraging!!!!!!!
Corinthians 13:7 "Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance".
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