Mum recovering from massive stroke - I'm exhausted

EMG72
Sun, 31 Mar 2024 18:22:53 +0000
Caring for someone

Hi all.

I’m new here.

My 77-year-old mum had a massive ischemic stroke 6 weeks ago. But she’s fighting back. She has been referred to a rehab unit so we’re waiting for an idea of a hospital discharge date.

This last week she’s coming out with new words but yet to create any sentences. She’s getting stronger physically too. But I arrived at hospital today to find her very poorly due to secretions that have built up in her throat due to difficulties swallowing.

The whole process is heartrending. The ups and downs are awful. And of course I can’t but think of how long she’ll have left, even if she does recover reasonably well.

I suppose I’m asking for encouragement from people who’ve gone through it with a parent. I don’t have a partner to support me and I’m self-employed so i can never stop working. My step dad is present for mum but he isn’t able to offer emotional support (it’s complicated).

I try to meditate, walk, etc. A local carers support group is at the other end of the phone. But of course you can’t change the fact that this is a long, gruelling process with lots of unknowns.

So I feel very isolated, fearful and stressed.

How have you coper with supporting a parent?

Thanks

43 posts - 7 participants