When 68-year-old Rajesh* was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, the illness brought more than physical discomfort. It left him struggling with anxiety, sadness and a growing sense of helplessness.
His family, made up of his wife, son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, remained by his side. His wife, the primary caregiver, despite her own responsibilities, continued to provide him with emotional and practical support. When she went to work, his daughter-in-law stepped in to care for him. However, the patient had reservations in accepting help from her and began to withdraw from his family.
As his condition progressed, he became partially bed-ridden and developed a wound on his back. Even simple activities, such as going to the bathroom, became difficult and required assistance. Yet he was reluctant to depend on others. Spending long periods in bed, he would often turn to his mobile phone for distraction. His illness, financial difficulties and inability to remain independent added to his anxiety and frustration, sometimes resulting in an irritable temperament that made it difficult for him to connect with those around him.
He had previously been receiving treatment at the Sassoon Hospital but was gradually rendered unable to travel the long distance for hospital-based care. His family’s limited financial resources further complicated the situation.
It was during this difficult period that they got in touch with the CanSupport team and the home visits were started. The team introduced Rajesh and his family to the free-of-charge home-based palliative care services provided which was a major relief to them. They were informed about the regimen which was tailored to his needs.
The doctor and nurse started with the necessary medical and supportive care, while the counsellor worked patiently with Rajesh to address his anxiety, sadness and emotional distress. Rather than focusing only on his illness, the team gave him the space to express his fears and frustrations and helped him gradually rebuild his confidence.
As his mobility reduced and a wound on his back began to fester, the team mobilised an air mattress and regular supply of adult diapers to help prevent further complications.
The team made regular home visits to monitor his gradual improvement and with counselling and consistent support, Rajesh showed signs of betterment by feeling less overwhelmed and reduction in excessive worrying. He started expressing more positive thoughts. His irritability decreased, and he became more receptive to everyone around him. Someone who had once been withdrawn and reluctant to communicate began interacting with the team and his family members with an eagerness. He was grateful that he did not have to face the disease alone.
The team continues to aid Rajesh and his family and although the circumstances remain challenging, the gloom of the sense of isolation and helplessness has been lifted. The efforts to restore more than mere comfort have yielded commendable results.
More than medical assistance, the relief he received when his body was struggling, the reassurance he got when his mind was flooded with bleak thoughts, and his dignity that was renewed when we found it hard to openly express his inner turmoil were the crucial elements that facilitated his progress.
The healing is not always reliant on cures but about helping an ailing person feel heard, supported, and hopeful again.
*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.
