What Might We Need?

Today, Dr. Cutter told V she had heard about Jim's ailment, and she expressed concern for us both. She asked whether we had nearby family to help, and we don't. She suggested calling the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition for help. V called this afternoon and spoke to a woman named Cathy.

Cathy listened to the whole story and expressed empathy. She asked what kind of help we might need, and I said I really didn't know what we needed or how they might help. Cathy gave the example of a single Mom of 2 kids who had a double mastectomy, and the Coalition was able gather volunteers to take the family meals for 2 weeks. (Dr. Cutter said the Coalition had unrestricted funds they could use to help.)

Cathy understands that we won't know our limitations until we see our ability levels when Jim comes home. We also presently don't know what kinds of home health care Medicare might provide, although we do know it will pay for three in-home physical and occupational therapy sessions a week (although we don't know for how long).

One thing V suggested we might need that Medicare won't pay for is someone to come in to watch Jim while V is out for DR appointments.

Cathy and V will touch base with each other early next week.

If you have any suggestions for the type of help that we might need and that it would be appropriate to ask for, please let us know.