Final destination.
4 years after massive stroke, bro passed away.
Ultimately, the cancer returned, urether, spine and remaining kidney. I’m his condition there was no mobility to kick it and fight it. Eventually palliative care team kick in and at that point you go on pain relief in the form of various morphine deliveries (oral and patch) and then fentanyl (adds delireum).
Just the last few days/week was hard because bro wasn’t able to be with it and communicate. It must be hard because one minute you can rationalise and the next it’s all confused.
Carers were brilliant, because the help button got used a lot and they never (rarely) dismissed it and always showed compassion.
On the stroke rehab - ultimately in bros case, only the swallow reflex returned early on. After that, nothing changed. I believe it is testament to the fact that the early days and weeks are key, and in his case he was in COVID lockdown and could not receive any notability help.
I recommend the Thailand rehab experience… The sheer attention available there and space was great. You lose some friends and family contact, so I’d say do 6 months to a year, early on. Much better than the treatment available via the NHS, which amounted to 1 session per week.
Lastly. Avoid the Vax. Imo. In my Bros case, the increased clot risk was fundamentally what caused his stroke. No point seeking compensation for that, because it wouldn’t change anything and would simply be soaked up in care home fees in a matter of a few months.
I wish every one of you here all the best. EVERY survivor story is different. Never get down, never give up hope. Make the best of what you have. Celebrate being able to do whatever you can do.
Keep sharing experience and giving support.
