Small cell lung cancer
Hi I just had it confirmed today I have small cell lung cancer I I will need chemo and radiotherapy.
I have a few practical questions. First one been a wig ware do I buy one in Dublin I'm not vain but don't want to fighting my children or grandchildren this soon chemo starts next week and want to be prepared for every outcome without giving them to much worry.im also incredibly worried about my husband he is my second husband and not the father of my children but they adore him even though they are very close to there dad so are my husband and I but my husband suffers from ptsd and bipolar he is also coming back slowly from a brain injury. I need some advice on how to cope with who is going to take over my home with him when I'm gone
This is there family home and he has lived hear for almost 20 years 2 of my sons want to live and look after him and both get on really well with him and all the grandchildren adore him. Do I make a will or affidavit as its very important that he is taking care of and it would put my mind at ease. I kind of know my outcome as I've been with my brother and sister through chemo before they passed away 😢 and also another brother who decided against treatment I know chemo should buy me some time ⏲️ but probably not enough to organise things when chemo kicks in. I probably have a lot more questions but it's just sinking in a little and all the time in the world is such a short time now I'm not giving myself time to think about it I was quite positive up till today no I'm more worried than anything else. I would be grateful for any advice you can give me
Thanks for taking the time to read this
Paulax
Hi Paulax,
Thank you for your online community post.
I am sorry to read that you were diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. I do hope that your chemotherapy goes well.
There are many different shops that provide wigs in Dublin and other counties that supply wigs, the gov.ie website have a list of these shops by county: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/09786-list-of-hair-replacement-product-suppliers-by-county/. There are grants available for hair replacement products under the treatment benefit scheme, there are other grants for those with a medical card and some health insurance policies provide allowances for hair replacement products.
You have mentioned your husbands brain injury, PTSD and bipolar, he has been through a lot, and I do hope that he is doing ok. It is lovely that your sons want to look after him. It would be advisable to contact a solicitor if you want to make a will and possibly discuss decisions around support arrangements in case they are needed in the future for your husband or yourself.
It may be helpful to speak with your public health nurse or the hospital social worker to enquire if there are any supports that may be available for you and your husband while you are going through treatment.
Paulax, you mentioned that you may have more questions. I wonder if you would call one of the nurses on our Support Line and we could chat to you in more detail about any questions you have and give you some information about supports. Our Support Line number is 1800 200 700 and we are open Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm. It would be good to speak with you in more detail.
Kind regards,
Cancer nurse