How can we help someone who appears to have given up?

My father in law was told in February he had an inoperable brain tumour. He’s 73 and lives alone. We all have to work full time, my husband does what he can every other day. His brother lives alone and is of little use as he would sooner do overtime than get involved. He was given quite positive news after the last chemo session that they might look at removing it as it’s responded well to treatment. He’s lost so much weight, isn’t washing or feeding himself or taking his tablets unless my husband physically feeds him and stays with him while he takes the tablets. We have young grandchildren and are doing nothing with them or our daughters as all of our free time is spent making sure he’s doing as he’s told BUT,  I can’t get my husband to focus on anything else, and it’s taking a toll on our relationship. I nursed my Dad through oesophageal cancer so I know what he’s going through. We are out at work on long shifts as we still have bills and a home to pay for. Can we get any outside help for him? Thankyou.

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat Blem although I'm very sorry to hear about your father in law. 

    We have some information on our website about support at home but if you would like to discuss this further with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very insightful and will do all they can to answer your questions about what outside help may be able to you and your father in law and address any other queries or concerns you may have at this time.

    Hopefully some of our members who have cared for loved ones in a similar situation will stop by soon to share their experiences and advice as well.

    This must be such a difficult time for you all, but we are sending you all our strength and support Blem and hope you are able to get the extra help you need to look after your father in law.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator