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When is the right thing to do

Holiday88
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My dad has end stage pulmonary fibrosis and is on 24/7 home oxygen. He is now in a hospital bed at home and is sleeping most of the time . Lost all energy losing weight and not eating very much . My mum (who should I had added is 73 like my dad ) is caring for him round the clock . His condition has certainly deteriorated over that last few weeks. In the house a few weeks back the plan was my dad to have no more hospital admissions and let things take it course . A emergency box of drugs has been put in the cupboard should the nurses need them. It was all well at the beginning that my dad was going to stay at home until the end but now I am panicking that we are going to have the support to do this. Before he deteriorates any more are wee too late to ask for hospice input ? X

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    Hi Holiday

    In your position I would phone your local hospice. They do accept self referral. Your district nurse can also get in touch. 

    I have stage 4 cancer and have decided to go into a hospice at the end because I think it would be too much for my husband. He visited the hospice and thought it was a wonderful place. I've done art therapy and had massages there too. It's not all sad. 

    Talk with your mum and arrange a visit to your hospice. They may be able to offer you and your mum support. You can all go and stay together at the hospice. Mine will even allow my dogs there. So everything is not set in stone and you still have time and options. 

    I hope you get things sorted. Remember you can come back to the forum at anytime for anything. I've asked questions and ranted in the past. It all helps and someone will always get back to you. Good luck and take care Bx

  • Hello Holiday88 and thanks for posting,

    I am very sorry to learn about your dad and can understand you wanting the best for him and your mum. 

    I am afraid because I am not part of the local community health care services I am not in a position to be able to answer your questions properly,  but I can understand you having concerns about what might lie ahead. I think this is natural in the circumstances which most probably feel equally daunting and upsetting.

    I think the best thing to do would be to talk to the nurses who seem to be involved already and/or to the GP and ask them how much support and input your family can realistically expect and what options are still open to your dad. I hope they are able to reassure you or make arrangements that your family feel comfortable with. 

    If you want to give us a ring please do.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here weekdays from 9-5. 

    Best wishes,

    Julia

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