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How can I best care for my husband

PrudenceRalentir
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My husband was recently diagnosed with oesphageal cancer.  He has just had his first chemo and as a newcomer to all this, I am not entirely sure of the best way to care for him. 

Since he received his first cycle on Wednesday, he hasn't got out of bed. He is due another three cycles of chemo before a big operation.

His diet is limited anyway with what he can swallow and he is diabetic as well. I am finding it hard to do meals for him. We are both elderly and now I have just found out I need an operation. As things stand, I don't feel I can go ahead with the operation while he is having chemo. So he is feeling rough with the side effects of chemo and I am having to cope with feeling sick most of the time too.

Any advice would be appreciated. 

  • Hi PrudenceRalentir,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. I'm sorry to hear of the situation with your husband - this sounds like a lot to manage, particularly with how you are feeling and also your upcoming operation.

    Firstly, hopefully he will start to feel a bit better as the days go on since the treatment. If ever you have concerns about how he is feeling or any side effects, call the number for the advice line which should be in his notes.

    And keep in touch with his doctor as they will be best placed to advise on what to expect in terms of his treatment, expected side effects, and also advice on how you can manage and how you can support him as well as yourself.

    You may want to ring the Macmillan advice line to enquire about additional support options to help you manage.

    We also have nurses available on freephone 0808 800 4040 (Monday-Friday, 9-5) if ever you'd like to talk things through.

    It's important that you can take care of yourself as well, so do try to speak to others to see what help you can get. And hopefully this will allow you to go ahead with your own procedure as well.

    We are always here for support if ever you need it and I hope the forum can be helpful for you.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Hello Prudence 

    Im sorry you are going through this and trying to support your husband too

    It is extra difficult for you. Wife hugs

    My hubby is similar to yours....

    Does hubby have a diabetic nurse? Contact them re his change in needs and diet 

    I use a blender and blitz the beejeebers out of everything including ready meals (add extra fluid/water to thin down) 

    And or protein shakes ( shop bought) or milky drinks whatever will stay down

    Ginger beer diet low sugar helps with sickness 

    Age uk helps anyone over 55, so contact them

    As mentioned Macmillian helped us sort out finances 

    Counselloring  etc

    Sorry its a bit disjointed 

    As a wife and carer it is hard and we put ourselves last but we are important too so take time to look after you too

    Sending kindest wishes to you both

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