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Helping Mum after surgery

Sal321
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Mum is going to have day surgery for a lumpectomy and removal of a lymph node to check if cancer has spread.  Reading about how sore and tired the patient can be, and remembering the nausea I had after general anaesthetic, I am wondering if I should stay with Mum for a few days (or longer?).  What do you advise?  I want her to feel comfortable and as positive as possible.  As I have school age children I wonder whether it may be a good idea to ask Mum to stay with us for the recovery.  That way family life is less disrupted, and Mum gets the company of the grandchildren too.  How unwell do patients feel?  Mum is 70, and keeps active.  Will she be recovering at home for weeks?  She will have radiotherapy for a few weeks too.  Is it a good idea for her to stay with us then?  

  • That sounds like a lovely thing to do for your mum Sal.

    Have you had a chance to discuss this with her yet? If not, why don't you have a chat with her to see what she would like and try to work with that maybe?

    I know there are a few members on the forum that have been in a similar situation with their parents and hopefully some of them will reply soon to share their advice and experiences. You could also discuss this with our cancer nurses if you like. Their freephone number is 0808 800 4040 and are available Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5pm.

    I hope your mum's surgery goes well Sal. Do let us know how she gets on, we'll be thinking of you.

    Kind Regards, 

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Hi I'm in a similar situation in that I also have young children and I am caring for someone with cancer ( my dad.) I was a registered nurse for years also so may have some professional advice ( for what it's worth.) I think taking your mum home to your house is exactly what I would do. General anesthetic can make you feel a bit rotten. She'll benefit from having you around. If the children are at school, that means she'll get plenty of rest. To have such family support is amazing. If you do take her home, remember to register with your GP ( as a temporary resident.) If you have any concerns you at least have a local GP then. Xx

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    I had a mastectomy and removal of lymph nodes at the beginning of January and went to stay with my mum (she's 74). One she needed to do something to help me through the cancer and secondly I needed some help to start with. Your mum may need help with her drain and her movement may be limited on that side to start with. Being with family definitely helped my recovery.

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