Support for caregivers: I feel helpless not being able to fix things

Alot of fruits like berries papaya pineapple or even avocado

Carbohydrates for Sustained Energy:
Oats:
A good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and iron, providing a steady energy release.
Sweet Potatoes:
Packed with complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin A, offering sustained energy.
Brown Rice:
A whole grain that's high in fiber and helps maintain steady energy levels.
Bananas:
Rich in carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamin B6, providing a quick energy boost.
Apples:
Offer a natural sugar and fiber mix for a slow and steady energy release.
Whole Grains:
Opt for whole grain breads, cereals, and other products for sustained energy.
Protein and Healthy Fats for Long-Lasting Energy:
Eggs:
High in protein and B vitamins, supporting sustained energy release.
Nuts and Seeds:
Rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, offering a sustained release of energy.
Fatty Fish (Salmon):
A good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for overall health and energy levels.
Legumes (Beans, Lentils):
Provide a good source of protein and fiber, contributing to sustained energy.
Avocados:
Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados can deliver lasting energy.

I just found out that my grandma was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at 62. I know it's quite early to seek support during this, but I am still in high school, and she is my primary caregiver. I can't help but let my mind wonder to helpless areas like imagining her not seeing me walk across that stage. She has always been a fighter and my biggest supporter. I began noticing changes in her in the past few months. Her appetite has been completely lost and doesn't enjoy foods like she once did. I know I should focus on my academics and my future, but it is so hard to do so when it primarily revolved around her. I always wanted to succeed for her. So, when I see her energy deteriorating, I can only feel my heart break more and more. I also feel completely unhelpful, and it's eating me alive, but I know I must keep trying my hardest for her.

I completely understand since I face the same situation. I am constantly going to the market every time my husband has a taste of something. I drive to the grocery store at least twice a day. But sometimes I am not successful. It’s makes me feel like a failure . But the good news I have been more successful than failure. However, he is still not gaining weight . My husband is pure bones and I tried to see him pass his weight because I just cry. All I see is he is disappearing in front of me.

Hi, my husband has the same taste problem. He has chemo for 4.5 mos. now and he doesn’t enjoy food like before. But he tries to eat so that he’d stop losing more weight. I’ve been making smoothies and that seemed to be Ok for him.

Do very sorry for the terrible news you just got about your grandma’s cancer. My wife is battling pancreatic cancer as well but your situation is so much worse. I hope that your grandma’s relatively young age will help her fight this and beat it. Great motivation for her is to see you graduate! Best of luck to you both!!!

My heart goes out to you , we had this situation before the Whipple where in a very short time frame my husband lost -50 lbs he did not need to loose at 6 1/2 feet . We tried everything . Bottom line it came down to whatever he wanted . He could not stomach boost , power drinks and the like but forced himself to drink them
(Hi calories hi protein in a smaller volume . Post Whipple he is eating and has a super good appetite . The list posted is excellent , just keep trying . I know it means a lot of grocery trips every time someone suggests something else but just keep trying and please don’t take it personally . My husband has already gained 10 lbs back and it’s barely 2months post op . I do fear for what happens with the chemo he starts on Monday. , but one day at a time . We already have several home
Made soups stocked up in the freezer I. Case of no appetite . Hang in there .

My husband is.going through the same thing. Have you found anything that helps put weight on him?

Well…..the surgeon post op suggested he treat eating to gain like a full time job and that sunk in , as it was really up to him . He lives to cook and enjoys his own food the best so the more he ate , the better he felt snd the more energy . We started small -adding cottage cheese to quiche , he never knew it was in there but added protein and fat . eating regularly and snacks between meals of granola power bars -he’d only get half in but better than nothing . We always have a bowl of nuts -almonds , walnuts , cashews and dark cholate covered almonds beside his favourite spot . High fat ice cream , puddings easy to eat and easily digested . Once he started cooking again , it was much better and more strength meant we could get out and walk and enjoy the sunshine . Chemo may change all this but we are moving forward anyway

We just spoke with the dietician at the chemo appt and she suggested several things Pretty much no changes other than no deli meats , be aware of what kind of fats he is eating and play with enzymes as needed . I know that sounds vague yet eating period is a huge factor . I do recall things being better after adding a magnesium supplement , if that helps ( his mg was too low which can cause issues as well

@klk1214, I can imagine that this is a very scary time for both you and your grandma. It's only natural that your mind wanders to the question "what if". There is a lot that is unknown.

While I know that both you and your grandma want you to continue to concentrate on your studies, it can be hard. Don't forget to take care of your need for answers and to get support. You're not alone.

You might find this website helpful:
Young caregivers: Cancer https://youngcaregiversconnect.ca/cancer/

Is your grandma at a cancer center? What treatment is she getting? Do you go with her to appointments?