How can I support a parent in the days following chemo? Other parent is at home with them. Thinking of sleepover rota with my sibling. Any suggestions please?
As always … that depends! Chemo can be a bit of an anticlimax. Different people react differently to different chemos and the side effects have a habit of building over time. At my worst, I just wanted to sleep heavily for 36 hours immediately after my infusions. I was unaware of who was in the house and needed to be left in peace until I started to feel human again. What was appreciated was a lift to/from the Chemo clinic, especially being dropped off at the door whilst someone else worried about parking. The parent without cancer might appreciate some respite care, even if they use it just to get out of the house for a couple of hours.
Hi Alexander, I agree with Dave chemo is different for everyone. I felt okay after first chemo but the effects do build up as you go along. I don't know if a sleepover is necessary like Dave says just take it one treatment at a time. It is great if you can take them, sit with them (if hospital will agree) ours does but I know some discourage it. I found it helped me to be with someone during the actual chemo. Good luck.
