Another bleed

[pozza40]

My husband has had another bleed, I'm so confused about what is happening now. It's happened on the other side of his brain and he is unresponsive. Addenbrookes have said there isn't they can do for him. No one at the hospital can say what is going to happen. What do I do now?

[123Bereft]

Oh Pozza, that's devastating. No change here apart from that he's worse since his cranioplasty, Nov 21, and he has a massive kidney stone that is just being monitored. I'm sending you all my love and hope that there's improvements soon xx

[bridgeit]

Hello Pozza. What an awful situation for you and hubby. It's worse for you because hubby is unaware of his condition whereas you are unenviably aware of absolutely everything and it's a shock to your system. Take some reassurance in the fact that the initial shock will pass with time, as will the chaos and confusion that comes with it as long as you have good information and appropriate support in place.

My suggestion is first, if you have not already, ask to speak with the lead consultant in charge of the neurosurgery (I assume?) clinic, i.e. the head honcho. Second, ask him/her to explain to you clearly in plain terms your hubby's prognosis and what this means for you in terms of next steps. They should tell you whether it's a waiting game to see if he improves, or something else. You should not be left uninformed and therefore guessing about which it is. That's not just cruel to you, it's completely unnecessary and avoidable.

You should not have a problem being put in touch with the clinic's lead consultant, but if you do experience difficulty then speak with PALS, the patient advice and liaison service. Here's their contact details:

cuh.nhs.uk/contact-us/let-u...

PALS' office can be found on the ground floor corridor to the left of Addenbrooke's Reception in the main entrance.

Information is what you need now, more than anything else - then you can follow an appropriate pathway for support and advice that meets your needs.

Don't forget you can contact Headway as well. Here is their Helpline contact: 0808 800 2244 or

headway.org.uk/supporting-y...

These are difficult times for you & I hope you get some understandable and sensible advice soon.

Meanwhile, my thoughts are with you.

[cat3]

Bridgeit seems to have covered the options Pozza. I just want to add my good wishes for some positive signs in your husband's condition.

My family were anxious for answers after my SAH but were assured that a watch & wait policy is so often the only option. My consultant explained how "We're keeping her hydrated and comfortable until she turns a corner and, when that happens, you'll see improvements" ...which they did.

Get all the information you can (mightn't be much right now) and surround yourself with support from family & friends during this testing time. Sending sincere best wishes and hopes for your man's wellbeing. Love Cat. Xx

[New_beginning]

pozza40 your husband is a survivor and I'm sure his ability has baffled health professionals. You are exhausted from all the love and care you have provided whilst managing the childrens needs. I honestly don't know what to say on this current situation. But myself, 123Bereft and you; started this journey near enough the same time, I wish I could hug you both. I'm so sorry with this situation I really am x