At just 34, Vijay* was already carrying the weight of an illness that had transformed not only his health but the life of his entire family. Diagnosed with testicular cancer with bone metastases, he lives with his wife, Hemlata*, a son, and a daughter. Before his illness, he earned a living by selling vegetables. His wife worked as a domestic helper, and together they managed to keep their family going.
One fateful day everything changed.
As Vijay’s condition progressed and his treatment became more demanding, Hemlata had to remain with him at the hospital. She could no longer continue working and eventually lost her job. Vijay was also forced to stop working and the family suddenly found itself without either of its primary sources of income.
Their 16-year-old son began taking on some of his father’s responsibilities, stepping into a role beyond what most teenagers his age would be expected to carry. At the same time, the family struggled to meet everyday expenses and keep up with the children’s education.
It was a year ago when CanSupport began the home visits. Vijay was experiencing severe and persistent discomfort throughout his body. Over the following three to four months, his suffering intensified considerably. The doctor and nurse assessed his symptoms and initiated appropriate medication. He was subsequently transitioned to medical opioid for better pain relief, which significantly reduced his distress and helped bring him greater comfort.
However, Vijay’s pain was not only physical. During counselling sessions and through conversations with the family, another deep source of distress emerged. He was constantly worried about what would happen to his children, whether his wife would find employment again, and how the family would manage financially. Even while struggling with his own illness, his thoughts remained focused on the future of his family.
CanSupport’s team realized that the support had to be extended beyond symptom management. They counselled Vijay and Hemlata, providing a safe space for them to express their fears and concerns while helping them understand his medical condition and the challenges ahead.
Recognising that the family’s financial difficulties could directly affect the children’s future, the counsellor connected them with educational organisations that could support school fees and essential educational supplies. Through the Patient Support Program (PSP), the family also received ration assistance to help meet their basic needs.
As Vijay’s mobility became increasingly limited, the team also looked at ways to make his everyday life safer and more comfortable. An air mattress was provided to help prevent pressure sores, along with a wheelchair and backrest to support mobility, positioning and comfort. During his curative treatment, CanSupport also facilitated a PET scan, helping ensure that necessary diagnostic support was available.
Through regular home visits, medical care, counselling and practical assistance, Vijay and his family gradually found a support system they could rely on. The care was not limited to treating his symptoms. It addressed the many fears and difficulties that illness had brought into the family’s life.
Thanks to the continued care, the family has become much more stable today. For them, the support has meant more than medicines or medical equipment. It has meant knowing that they are not facing this difficult journey alone and the most meaningful outcome that can be seen in something simple: the smiles on their faces.
CanSupport remains a firm believer of palliative care being not only about easing a patient’s pain. It is about lessening the burdens that surround illness – helping a family protect its children’s future, restoring a sense of dignity and making difficult days a little more bearable.
*Disclaimer: The name and certain identifying details in this story have been altered to protect the privacy and dignity of the patient and her family.
