Hi there and thank you for posting on here

I am very sorry to hear about your mum, it sounds like this is a difficult time for all the family.

The just in case bag will contain a range of medications that may be needed if and when your mum deteriorates or her symptoms worsen. This bag may not be needed but if it is the doctors and nurses involved in your mum's care can give them to her without needing to wait to get them from a pharmacy.

It is important your mum's condition is assessed at regular intervals by the community team involved in your mum's care to make sure she is kept as comfortable as possible.

I hope this is helpful.

Please get back to us if you have further questions or if you prefer to talk over the phone our number is 0808 800 4040. We're here weekdays 9-5.

Naomi

Thank you, you have made it clearer. 
I feel totally mixed up. When my mum was in hospital with high calcium, which has come down, the Drs mentioned weeks to month for her end of life. Today I have spoken to a palliative care nurse who appeared shocked with this & believes my mum is too bright & with it for this and a longer time has been mentioned. Which is amazing and my mum is very strong and determined lady. However I feel on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. I am currently on the sick from work, I am a teacher, however I don’t want to use all my sick leave now if mum will need me in 4/5 months time. I know we can’t predict when but there is so much to think about and it’s so hard & emotional. 

Hello, Am following as my mum was in hospital with hypercalcemia too recently and the docs have put her chemo "on hold" (secondary breast cancer with bone mets) but the hospital is beyond uncommmunicative and we can't get an answer why until she meets her oncologist next week!!  It's so anxiety inducing

Hello and thanks for your post,

I am sorry to hear that you are finding it difficult to get through to any one in the hospital. I can only imagine how frustrating this must be for you.

It is quite normal to have chemotherapy delayed if the blood counts are not within normal limits.

It is difficult without being involved in your mum's care to be able to say much. The doctors may want to review your mum's medication/chemotherapy which is why they may be waiting to speak to her at her appointment.

They may also be waiting to check her bloods before her next appointment to see if the results have improved.

I am not sure if your mum has a breast care nurse and whether you can ring them for more information. You may have to leave a message on their answer machine as they are often out and about at clinic appointments.

You could also try ringing the secretary if you are unable to reach the breast care nurse.

If you are able to go to your mum's appointment that may be helpful especially if you have a chance to have your questions answered.

Do give the nurses a ring on our helpline if you want to talk things through. Our Freephone number is 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

All the best,

Catherine