At what stage would 'McMillan' nurses help?

swingaloo

Does anyone have experience with Macmillan please.

My son has recently had a tumour removed. We are waiting for the results of the biopsy on the tumour and also waiting for scan results. We know the tumour is cancerous and that there are concerns about a 'mass in his lymph glands' but we do not yet know what treatment will be needed. The hospital have said that it may be radiotherapy, chemotheriapy or a 'watch and wait' scenario..


He is recovering from the operation and as he has been working part time for an agency he is not entitled to any sick pay. He is now out of hospital and is going to try to claim statutory sick pay through the job center

The trouble is that we are struggling financially and now we have lost his contribution to the household and dont know if and when he can return to work. It will depend on the scan/biospsy results and what the treatment is.
He has his own bills, carc insurance, credit card payment, gym memebership etc and no income at all at the moment.

I have heard that the Macmillan nurses will advise on benefits and make sure you are getting anything you are entitled to but Im not sure at what stage you can approach them for help.
As we are still in limbo regarding his diagnosis and treatment are we able to approach them or would they only get involved once his treatment starts.

Id be grateful for any advice, thank you.

Wilma33

I'd just give them a ring and ask for their help. What have you got to loose?

bluenoseam

I'm sure if you phoned them right now and explained the situation they would talk you through what benefits he's entitled to as well as any potential grants.

Molly41

He should be entitled to Employment and Support Allowance. Also depending on the diagnosis he may be able to get Disabled Living Allowance (Fast Tracked if terminal). Really hoping he is not though. Also check whether he has insurance attached to his credit cards that might cover not working.

Prioritise the bills. So rent/ mortgage/ council tax/ heating/ good food. Then if any left for repayments but that is a low priority. Have a look on the Debt Free board for specimen letters to write to creditors.

Having been in a similar situation (although not terminal) I would say that health far out weighs credit card bills and hence prioritising heating and food xx

UKTigerlily

I think sometimes the GP doesn't automatically put you in touch with the Nurses, they are supposed to but if they haven't then please call them or ask the GP about it. My Nan was diagnosed with Cancer in January & was put with a Nurse right away, she is in Hampshire so I don't know if location makes any difference.

Wishing you all the best & get well thoughts for your Son x

meritaten

macmillan will help with ANY issues to do with cancer - try their website - just google 'macmillan cancer'.
They have specialist help with anything to do with finances.
they are amazing - I used to work for a cancer charity and anything we didnt know we just asked the macmillan people! they ALWAYS had the answer - to the question asked and sometimes they helped in ways we hadnt even thought of!

swingaloo

Thank you all for the replies. Will call them in the morning.

go_cat

I don't know how old your son is but Clic Sergant have just helped someone i know who has had cancer and she is 20

http://www.clicsargent.org.uk/Home

Gingernutty

AS other posters have mentioned, if you ask for help they can offer it. Help with benefits and advice about 'your' cancer and the therapies involved.

The nurses (MacMillian or Marie Curie) only really get involved with nursing care of the debilitated, alone or terminally ill.

lessonlearned

So sorry to hear about your son and do hope all goes well with his treatments.

His hospital should have a welfare rights officer who can advise about benefits and who will guide him through the process They will do home visits if necessary.

Good luck.

meritaten

macmillan will help with any issues with cancer - you dont have to be terminal or at any stage. they are prepared to answer any question.