Advice for Caregiver
Hi everyone,
My husband was diagnosed with stage 4 appendix cancer about a month ago. He’s 37 and was completely healthy otherwise, so this has been a huge shock for us. Honestly, finding out felt like getting hit by a bus.
He just finished his second round of FOLFOX (5-FU and oxaliplatin). The first round wasn’t too bad aside from some insomnia from the steroids, but this round is definitely hitting him harder. They also just introduced irinotecan.
For anyone who’s been through this chemo or cared for someone who has, what helped the most?
He’s been having a lot of night sweats, and I feel terrible because I know I can’t point a fan or cold air directly at him with the oxaliplatin cold sensitivity. Is there anything that made you or your loved one more comfortable?
I’m also trying to think ahead for the rough days after treatment. From what I’ve seen so far, days 2 and 3 seem to be the hardest. Are there any things you found really helpful that I should have on hand?
I’ve also been trying to keep our home as clean as possible. We bought several air purifiers, and I disinfect regularly, but I don’t want to use anything with strong chemicals or scents that could bother him. Are there any cleaning products or routines you’d recommend?
This is all so new to us, and I just want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to take good care of him. Any advice, tips, or things you wish you had known would mean so much.
Thank you. ❤️