When do we get Macmillan involved?

[noarguments]

Brief history - Mum diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer with liver secondaries in June/July. Was very poorly / slept all day / weak / no motivation to do anything at all / no appetite / mobility went etc etc. Course of chemotherapy later - seemed brighter, was eating much better, more energy etc although nowhere near as before. Chemo gave her that extra time which is brilliant.
Now, for the last few weeks she's gone downhill fast again. She's in pain from a lump on her leg, she not eating, she never gets dressed, and she's sleeping A LOT. Not sure whether she's even washing properly, although its hard to get straight answers from her.
My poor old Dad has become housekeeper, cook, shopper, cleaner, and carer and is worn out with worry. We go over every other day - ish, but its him that has the constant worry and pressure.
We had carers in the summer to help with personal care, so it might be time to get them on board again, but what do Macmillan do and at what stage do they get involved?
Sorry for the long post. Can anyone help?

[BadRoly]

Sorry to hear about your mum. From my experience (my Dad died of cancer in May last year) Macmillan can be involved as soon as you want them to be. It might be worth calling then even if it just for a chat and advice.

I rang them last April as Dad was really poorly and Mum was struggling and didn't know what to do. I seem to remember that a receptionist type person took the initial call then a nurse rang back (bit like nhs direct etc). She was very very kind and helpful.

[BadRoly]

I've tried to pm you (never done it from phone before!)

[overthemill]

Now. They can do as much or as little as is wanted/ needed. Your dad must be so tired and you too. They can really help

[iseenodust]

Certainly contact Macmillan are a nursing service, they will help with pain management etc. Also contact your nearest hospice and what their community service offers.

[noarguments]

Thank you everyone. Will try them tomorrow. BadRoly - didn't get your PM, can you try again - I'd be really grateful for any additional advice. Very sorry about your Dad.
District Nurses coming to reassess tomorrow, so we'll see what that brings.

[georgie22]

Sorry to hear that you're going through this noarguments. District nurses should be a good first point of contact for advice etc. and can make a referral to community palliative care services, Marie Curie (for sitting services to give your dad some respite) etc. GP should also be involved in pain management and then if needed a referral can be made to specialist services.

[Webbywoo06]

I would contact the gp/district nurse for support and referrals into appropriate agencies. Ie social services, mcmillian, make sure your dad is getting the help and financial benefits he needs. There is so much support out there, the local hospice will also have support staff and respite. I hope u get the support the family needs