Hello rarsie, along with everyone dropping in to chat. For me, not a day goes by that I do not think about Pieter, it still seems like a dream and that it was yesterday, that we were still on the journey of cancer. Since Pieter passed away in June 2012, I moved to Brisbane for a short time for work, then later moved back to Kingaroy. By February 2013 I had 5 jobs which was placing a strain on the body. I am one down to 2 jobs (one is a casual position). I am an Assistant in Nursing at one of the local age care facilities, working in both low and high care areas. I am looking at trying to study palliative care this year and perhaps nursing as well (we will see). At the moment I live in Kingaroy with a wonderful family. The house is starting to be completed, as we only got to lock up stage while Pieter was around. I am so very glad that Pieter had the opportunity to live in his house on the block before his passing. I think of you all regularly and wonder how you are all coping over time. Hope you all had a nice Christmas (thought it is a difficult time of year), and wishing you all the best for 2014. To all those going through the journey with cancer, all the best. Groenevelt68 ... View more

min1982 Hello, It has been awhile since I have been on the site. My husband was diagnosed with GBM stage IV in June 2011 and passed away in June 2012. I am not sure if you have read all posts on this area, as there is some great info and support. The cancer council has a wonderful book they have put together about GBM, the info is on the site. See how you go, if you want more info or a chat. Yours Groenevelt68 ... View more

Actually reading as much information as you can from the net, library, hospitals, and asking questions is one of the greatest things you can do, not only for yourself but for your father as well. The is not the greatest journey we would like to travel on, actually it is hard and painful. Provide as much support as you can, make as many memories as you can, enjoy every moment when you can. My thoughts are with you ... View more

It is hell, it is hard, you wake wishing you were not here, you got to bed at night crying, it is a hard roller coaster, one which you wish you can stop. You do not want anything, anyone, you just want it all to go away, the pain, the feeling of someone going in and ripping out your heart. The loss of your loved one, all you want is to turn the clock back, to have them here again. It will over time get better and by that I mean, you will develop coping skills, you will learn how to integrate back into society, the pain will always be there but it will become dull, the feeling in the chest also changes. The first few months are hell, the few after are worse, but hopefully in time the skills required to cope will come and assist. I feel your anguish, I understand your pain. This is a journey which no-one should have to walk upon, and for those that do, all I can say is, I send my love and thoughts to you all. ... View more

They will take into account the reactions of the chemo, but I do not think the coughing up blood is good and should be checked. I am sending all my thoughts to you and your mum for the up coming visits, wishing all the best ... View more

Hello, I came to realise early in the piece with Pieter that I was working along side the medical staff providing palliative care, at first that scared me but then realised that people diagnosed with GBM are already (once diagnosed) under palliative care. Essentially it is another form of caring. I agree that getting equipment, papers and funeral in order, even if you only start the processes are a great help. Equipment such as the hospital bed, incontinence aids, food supements for when taste buds change or when food becomes difficult to swallow. Power of attorney is great but also make sure all papers are in order (for after) as power of attorney stops the moment someone passes away. Funeral arrangements, Pieter had always indicated a cardboard box and BBQ, but as he progressed Pieter asked if he could have music, then asked about poppy service (having been in defence force), and as Pieter wanted the changes I worked with the funeral director to make sure Pieter got his wishes. Pieter also wanted to stay home, which worked well for him. My children assisted with Pieter' care, with my daughter was with Pieter and I on his passing. You need to do what you believe is the best for you and your family, all of us here understand what you are going through and we can provide information on what worked or did not work for us, but you have to decide your next step. We can only support you in your decision. Our thoughts are with you. ... View more

You need to do what is in your heart. If you feel the need, see a solicitor, they will guide you. The ashes of a loved one is important to the family, to you. Once again follow your heart. When the time is right you will know what to do. ... View more

Hello, Firstly, only you know what is the right decision, follow your heart. What ever decision you make, it will be very hard. If you walk away, you have the knowledge that your best friend, partner passed away without you, if you stay, you know you will be in for a hard journey. To be there for a dear friend regardless of what type of relationship (marriage, lovers, partners, friends), is very rewarding. To assist someone along one of life's hardest journeys leaves a treasured memory in your heart. I just spent 12 months on the journey of brain tumours, I was from the day Pieter went to hospital and was diagnosed to being there for the day he took his last breath, and I would not change that for the world (actually I would do it all again, if it meant the opportunity just to be with him, for even 5 minutes). It was my decision to resign my job and become full time Carer, and I have no regrets. It was a beautiful time (at times hard, and sad), but the knowledge that I supported the one I love through the journey of cancer and death is very rewarding. This is not for everyone, once again listen to your heart, you already know what you need to do. Believe in your decision, do not have regrets. Yours ... View more

Yes, he is pushing you away, as he is trying to minimise the pain you are suffering but in doing so does not realise that you are suffering. Does stage 4 prostrate cancer mean he has a high change of dying? If so, what was the time limit? Perhaps he just wants to enjoy the last of his life his way. Remind him you are there for better or worse and that you would prefer to create wonderful memories of the time you are together. Take trips (outings, day trips) places that hubby would like to see, like to do. Perhaps a visit to a doctor/social worker (who is older) and discuss the issues. It is not easy when a loved one lashes out at us, but they do it, because they trust us, they know that at the end of the day, we still love them. Get the meds checked, as some can effect behaviour. Good luck ... View more

Hello, Firstly, only you know what is the right decision, follow your heart. What ever decision you make, it will be very hard. If you walk away, you have the knowledge that your best friend, partner passed away without you, if you stay, you know you will be in for a hard journey. To be there for a dear friend regardless of what type of relationship (marriage, lovers, partners, friends), is very rewarding. To assist someone along one of life's hardest journeys leaves a treasured memory in your heart. I just spent 12 months on the journey of brain tumours, I was from the day Pieter went to hospital and was diagnosed to being there for the day he took his last breath, and I would not change that for the world (actually I would do it all again, if it meant the opportunity just to be with him, for even 5 minutes). It was my decision to resign my job and become full time Carer, and I have no regrets. It was a beautiful time (at times hard, and sad), but the knowledge that I supported the one I love through the journey of cancer and death is very rewarding. This is not for everyone, once again listen to your heart, you already know what you need to do. Believe in your decision, do not have regrets. Yours ... View more