Husbands 3rd+ year with NSCLC mets in lymphs growing again plus new one

Marie D
Marie D Member Posts: 2
in Lung Cancer #1
Hello All,
My husband has NSCLC from Agent Orange exposure during his service in the Army in Vietnam. He is on his 5th level of treatment. Has had:
-lobectomy 2009, chemo infusion carboplatin, radiation, chemo infusion cisplatin, chemo infusion Alimpta
Tomorrow 8/2/11 he will start oral chemo.
Pet shows new lymph tumor and present lymphs growing.
He has episodes of fainting, dizziness, terrible fatigue and stubbornness.
I am exhausted from it all trying to keep positive, upbeat and supportive.
Are there any caregivers retreats in the Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North or South Dakota that anyone knows of? I need some respite.
Blessing to you all on this same journey.

Marie

Comments

  • grannylove
    grannylove Member Posts: 183
    #2
    So So Sorry
    Marie D. My heart goes out to you as I can feel the dispair in your post. I do not know of any retreats but am sure that someone on this board can help you in your search for assistance. Have you contacted your local Lung cancer organization or the V.A., since it was related to Agent Orange? They have alot of services that might be of assistance to give you a much needed break or be able to help you find a service within your area to meet your needs. Sometimes I do think it is harder being a caregiver than a survivor. Hang in there Marie. Someone will post who is better educated on such matters. Know that we care and you are not alone. My prayers are with you both.
  • kado4
    kado4 Member Posts: 80
    #3
    Hello Marie D.
    I am very
    Hello Marie D.
    I am very sorry your husband and you are going through these terrible times.I can only suggest that you possibly call case managers at your local hospital.They may know of any programs available.You are not alone,remember that.Be strong,I know its difficult.My dad has nsclc stage 3a.He is chemo/radiation now.My mother and I are caring for him.It is emotionally exausting.I am an only child.I feel the pressure now. I will pray for you Marie D.and for your husband.
  • Marie D
    Marie D Member Posts: 2
    #4
    grannylove said:

    So So Sorry
    Marie D. My heart goes out to you as I can feel the dispair in your post. I do not know of any retreats but am sure that someone on this board can help you in your search for assistance. Have you contacted your local Lung cancer organization or the V.A., since it was related to Agent Orange? They have alot of services that might be of assistance to give you a much needed break or be able to help you find a service within your area to meet your needs. Sometimes I do think it is harder being a caregiver than a survivor. Hang in there Marie. Someone will post who is better educated on such matters. Know that we care and you are not alone. My prayers are with you both.

    Thank you
    Hello grannylove,
    Thank you for the kind words. I have tried to find some help from the V.A. but they do not have any caregiver's groups. There is an American Cancer Society office not too far away. The first year of his cancer we went to one support group but then we wet away for a time and they no longer meet.
    I feel better today. We had taken our son who is a Captain in the Army who was home on his R&R from his deployment in Iraq so I was just very low yesterday. Many days are actually okay but I do have some low ones as well.
    Your caring and prayers are very appreciated.

    Hope you are well.

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