Gul, a 40 Year-old woman, is currently undergoing treatment for carcinoma of the rectum at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi. She is a mother of five children — four daughters and a son. As part of her treatment plan, she is receiving chemotherapy, which has led to several side effects including severe pain and frequent vomiting. These conditions have greatly impacted both her physical and mental health.
When she got referred to CanSupport, our team comprised of the doctor, nurse, and counsellor closely checked her for how she had been responding to the treatment. We have continued monitoring her closely and managing the symptoms to provide her with the best possible care and comfort.
In addition to her physical health challenges, the patient was experiencing significant emotional distress. Her main concern stemmed from a strained and painful relationship with her eldest daughter. This broken relationship weighed heavily on her mind and was impacting her emotional well-being during an already difficult time.
Recognizing the importance of emotional healing alongside medical treatment, our counsellor engaged in sessions with her. Through the discussions, various options to ensure her daughter’s safety and well-being were explored, which was her biggest worry. Ultimately, the patient made the decision to get her eldest daughter to move in with her grandmother. This decision brought her immense relief, as she felt reassured about her daughter’s safety and care.
Furthermore, we extended ration supplies to the family to help them cope with the financial stress caused by her illness. The patient and her entire family expressed deep gratitude for the comprehensive support they have received — from medical management to emotional counseling and social assistance.
Through a comprehensive and systematic approach to care, we were able to help the patient find some peace amidst her ongoing battle with cancer, and strengthen her resilience as she continues her treatment journey.
(Picture in display is a representation of CanSupport Home Care Services)
To protect the privacy of the patient and the family, the name/s in the story have been changed. There are many people who need palliative care but they don’t know where to go. While CanSupport is doing its best the reach out to people informing them about their services, we request you to spread the word.
Share our Helpline Number +91 11 4101 0539 / +91 98990 11212 (Mon to Sat 9 am to 6 pm) with all the needy people. Though all CanSupport services are free of charge for patients, the cost of reaching out to patients and caring for them cost ₹1,350 per visit per patient.
If you would like to support our cause, please donate at https://cansupport.org/donations/home-based-palliative-care/.
