Im sorry if I brought any anxiety on by explaining everything in so much detail. All too often patients are not told they can have an extended recovery period and arent prepared. Im sure this is weighing heavily on your husbands mind as well putting even more unneeded stress on the fragile patient. Its sad but risk depression runs high in OC patients, many (and their caregivers too) need anxiety meds to get past the treatments and recovery.

I just thought of another thing to check on, your husbands thyroid levels. Many of us will need a tiny pill for the rest of our lives to help balance our thyroids after rads. Its really not a big deal but it can make you feel pretty crappy. Men can also have their testosterone levels messed with so that should be checked too after rads. For my thyroid it didnt show up until about 4 years after my rads ended so keep your eyes open for your husband to be extra tired. After chemo and rads it takes months, maybe in some years to resume back to their normal levels.

I understand how financial strain can hurt cancer patients. In another month your husband could be so much better. Remember its still early in his recovery. Focus on whats within your control... his intake. By making certain your husband is getting at least 2500 calories and 48-64 oz of water daily will greatly help the recovery process. Adding high protein whey powder to his feedings will boost the daily protein intake to help with healing.

Here is a list of places you may receive some financial help. Not all of these places operate all over the country but it doesnt hurt to check each one out. I always say ... "you dont get if you dont ask." Hopefully you will have some success with the list.

OCF main pages... Financial Assistance


Heres another list that might be helpful to your husband. The foods are milder and easier to swallow for patients extra sensitive tastes and sore mouths. I also used to drink a couple of these milkshakes a day getting way over 5000 calories daily. During the recovery phase patients have trouble gaining weight even with that high of an intake. So dont fret if your husband takes in 3000 or 4000 calories daily, he needs it.


Easy to Eat Food List

(All measurements are estimates)

Giant High Calorie Choc-Peanut Butter Milkshake (1200++ calories per shake)

3 or 4 cups chocolate ice cream (regular/full fat type)
2 tablespoons peanut butter (smooth type)
2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
1 or 2 cups whole milk (can substitute half and half to add even more calories)
1 scoop carnation instant breakfast
1 scoop high protein whey powder (check with doc if this is ok)

Blend this extra long to make it very smooth and creamy so it goes down easier. If the shake is too thick, add more milk to thin it down to what works best for you.

Hope this helps!!! Please stick with us and stop by often, we will help you both get past this bump. Good luck!!!