struggling..

[LemonDropsDreamToo]

Mum had her first chemo yesterday, spoke to her around 4pm and she was tired but feeling ok, she had something to eat and was going to have a sleep, I took a sigh of relief, one chemo down another to go in three weeks, she had eaten and I had a good feeling for the first time in months.... 6.30pm I get a call, mum had been rushed to hospital with pains in her head and slurred speech, I thought there and then, Mum is going to die... we spent 6 hours at the hospital, they checked mum over, done ecg and bloods, and we was allowed to take her home, said the pains in her head was probably due to the cancer, as I sat in the hospital looking at my beautiful mum I just couldn't help thinking, how has this happened, how is there cancer in your head, this can't be happening... I didn't sleep last night and as life has to carry on, I got up, sorted the children out and come to work... this is the hardest most painful thing I have ever had to go through in my life and I just dont think I am strong enough..

I popped to see mum on my lunch, day 2 after chemo, she's eaten breakfast and had had lunch, her pains in her head were still there.. she just doesn't seem herself, I know after chemo it can be pretty rough and I am expecting it, but last night gave me an unexpected scare and I'm so frightened.

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear Lemon Drops,

I am so sorry to hear that your mum has recently been experiencing some distressing symptoms. Hopefully the chemotherapy in time will improve her symptoms.We are often tested when someone we care about is unwell and we have to watch them cope with the often unpleasant side effects of treatment. However there are medications available to manage the symptoms and hopefully she will feel better soon.One of my colleagues has sent you a link to some material last week which I hope has been informative.

Somehow like others you will cope, you and your mum seem to share a very special relationship. What you are giving her now is really very important,your time,empathy and trust.

If you feel how would like to speak to one of us please don't hesitate to call the nurse led helpline.0800 358 7200.

Kind regards,

All the team at the Roy Castle Helpline