Brain injury followed by dementia, now basal cell carcinoma on face

Posted by lucypo @lucypo, May 12 3:42pm

Hi there, my name is Loree and I am hoping someone can help my family with the latest of tragedies regarding my mom. The resident doctor at her long term care facility finally prescribed chemotherapy cream which did not have any real effect other than scabbing. New growth has developed and the patch has grown. Because of her brain injury (a fall), followed by what they call dementia (no tests ever done) the doctor will not refer her for further treatment. In his words she will die from dementia before the skin cancer kills her. So sad and upsetting, there must be something that can be done!! Any information would be so appreciate -

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It sounds like brand name Efudex or Flourourocil was used on the basel cell skin cancer. If that is applied twice a day for 6 weeks, there will be scabbing like you said on the spot where the cancerous cells are. I've used it several times before. If done right, it works - or at least for me. Maybe it would be time to get a second opinion for the dementia issue, if possible.

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Yes, Efudex was the medication. The resident doctor said nine weeks was the max so no treatment at all. Thanks so much for your reply, I am pleased the cream worked for you!!

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Thanks so much for the hugs!! I have never been part of a support group and am pleased I chose to join the discussions. Such a great group of people and a reminder my family and I are definitely not alone!!

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My husband has melanoma insitu which is being treated with every 3 month checks. If the next is ok. He will go every 6 months. It depends on what kind you have. Get a second opinion. Sounds like you need someone that deals with her major issues then the more complex ones. Dignity should always be present. I am so sorry this is happening to your loved one , as well as your family. 🫂

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@sillyblone

My husband has melanoma insitu which is being treated with every 3 month checks. If the next is ok. He will go every 6 months. It depends on what kind you have. Get a second opinion. Sounds like you need someone that deals with her major issues then the more complex ones. Dignity should always be present. I am so sorry this is happening to your loved one , as well as your family. 🫂

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Thanks so much!! My daughter suggested a second opinion as well, the problem is finding someone who will do it!! Funny you used the word dignity as that describes my mom so well. I hope your journey with your husband continues to be positive!!

Loree

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Hello. We went to a dermatologist! Best thing we did! Never give up!!

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@sillyblone

Hello. We went to a dermatologist! Best thing we did! Never give up!!

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Hi there,

Thanks for the suggestion!! The resident doctor has refused a referral to a dermatologist for mom due to the dementia... He also claims the wait is over one year and no one is taking new patients. We are not giving up, I have contacted the BC Cancer Agency and hope we can be referred to them for help.

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@lucypo

Hi there,

Thanks for the suggestion!! The resident doctor has refused a referral to a dermatologist for mom due to the dementia... He also claims the wait is over one year and no one is taking new patients. We are not giving up, I have contacted the BC Cancer Agency and hope we can be referred to them for help.

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Second opinion never hurts. She is blessed to have you as her Caregiver. It is hard no matter the situation. I could write a book, believe me. Everyday is different. Hope all works out. Let me know if I can help. Caregiving is definitely not for the faint of ❤️

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@sillyblone

Second opinion never hurts. She is blessed to have you as her Caregiver. It is hard no matter the situation. I could write a book, believe me. Everyday is different. Hope all works out. Let me know if I can help. Caregiving is definitely not for the faint of ❤️

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So true, such a hard journey... My dad is 87 and still in the family home (does not want to leave). He is naturally depressed and often comes across as disinterested. I honestly feel very overwhelmed by all of this!! I am helping him sell some stuff which is time consuming and at times frustrating. One day at a time, baby steps is all I can do, staying as strong as I can every day. I have so much love for my family and will do whatever I can to make the road a wee bit easier for everyone. Thank you for reaching out, it feels so good to write back!!

Loree

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You are so welcome. You have your hands full. I cannot imagine all that is going on. I deal with stuff that would turn your head around. I am capable and try to pick my battles. I am not perfect by any means. But..that being said, Parent's are alot harder. We love them and would do anything that is necessary. Unfortunately I have lost both my parent's! I get up everyday and know something will come up or maybe not. Keep your loving attitude. Don't be threatened by what you need to do . It is so much harder when we love them. My heart is feeling blessed by your comments. Take care.

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