Mum's partner dying at home.

Last Friday my Mum's partner had a CT scan, he hadn't been feeling well for a couple of weeks, they rushed his results and found a brain tumor and he was taken to hospital. He had a full body scan Wednesday and it's everywhere on his brain, liver, lungs. They've said there's not much they can do. 

I'm 26, living at home with my Mum and their daughter whose 16.  He's not really coherent now, it's crazy how quick things decline, but he did say at one point if he was going to die he wanted to die at home.  I don't want to deny him that but I don't know how we'll manage.

My Mum struggled the couple of weeks he was ill to look after him, I don't know how she'll manage to lift him and wash him and whatever else and I certainly can't do it. My sister is already struggling with her mental health and I don't know how either of us are going to deal with him being at home. I worry he'll get loud or aggressive or whatever else. I don't know how we're supposed to spend time with him, we've never been a close family. I'm scared to see that happen, I'm scared it will be traumatic and I'm scared with everything going on we'll get no support. 

I can only hope it will be quick and painless and peaceful but I worry all the same. My Mum is going to the hospital Monday to have the meeting, I'm hoping they'll get more details then on what support we'll get. I guess I just want to know how likely it is that we'll get any at home support during this. Are nurses visiting home, is anyone out there helping with this right now? How bad can it get before he passes?  

  • Hi joliver974,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. I'm very sorry to read about your Mum's partner. I can see this sounds like a very tough situation and no doubt there must be a lot of uncertainty and worry, especially given all the difficulties you describe.

    There is some information on our website here about choosing where to die (scroll to the "At home" section which is likely most relevant for your situation). There are also some useful links on the page to other resources - including the link to further info on caring for the carer here.

    You will be able to access some level of support although of course exactly what this will involve will depend on your Mum's partner's situation. Macmillan are another useful resource for support so it may also be worth taking a look at their website for further information.

    It sounds as though you'll find out more today via your Mum having the meeting at the hospital. Hopefully this will be helpful in terms of learning next steps.

    We're also always here on this forum for support should you need it - it's a very welcoming and understanding community.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator