Another resource: Here is a list of current support groups for Carers around melbourne. As you can see, there is a focus on carers of people with mental health issues on this particular list, as the list is provided by ARAFEMI and that is their focus. However, it also lists many general groups with a focus on supporting carers with chronic illness, which may offer an avenue for sharing with others experiencing a similar journey. http://www.arafemi.org.au/supportgroups/ ... View more

Hi Kirri, A valuable resource can be the local palliative support team. Their role is often misunderstood, as often the word "palliative" is interpreted as meaning at the very end, or in the process of, passing on. Most doctors or nurses would use the term "terminal phase" for this end phase: although this is may be a part of a palliative care teams role, it is not it's central focus. I would describe palliative care as being aimed at improving the everyday quality of life for a patient( and their loved ones), when the duration and destination of the journey can no longer be significantly altered. If the surgeon can't offer an operative intervention, if an Oncologist can't offer a chemotherapy intervention, then the goal becomes making the very best most of everyday as it comes. Palliative care is not about withdrawing medical care, but about refocusing the goals and nature of resources available. Rather than clinical interventions, the goals become refocused toward improving a persons daily quality of life, which whichever assistance can be provided. This can include areas such as access to expert advice and education in pain management, access to allied health staff and mobility devices, and counselling and support with regards to the emotional,spiritual and psychological journey the patient and carers go through. To access such programs, you can talk to them directly (ie does not need to come from a GP/hospital staff member). Palliative care programs are directly funded by their health networks, and thus access is not constrained by medicare restrictions or access to private insurance. To give an example, in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne, the Palliative Care Program is with the Eastern health group (http://www.eastpallcare.asn.au/contact-us/locations.html). They have a family Support Officer available, who can assist carers of patients who are on their program (if anyone knew of a current local support group for carers/families in this area, i would think it may be this person!) A person must however be accepted as a client(ie your father) to access resources. The referral can be completed by a carer such as yourself, family member (ie not just a GP/Oncologist etc, but certainly can be). The number is listed on the linked page above. I hope you can access support soon, and best wishes for your journey as you travel this path with your father. Wally ... View more