How to get help with housework during chemo when feeling overwhelmed?

Managing household tasks during chemo treatment while dealing with existing health challenges requires a team approach and outside support options. Consider exploring local cancer support organizations, religious communities, or volunteer services that specifically help cancer patients with household tasks, and having an open conversation about redistributing responsibilities at home can help create a more sustainable support system during this challenging time.

Heather let me say this. My wife is going through radiation and chemo for what ultimately is something she will never recover from. I go to work and take care of her as well because I LOVE her. Everything and everyday is hard but because I LOVE her nothing is TOO hard. I can only imagine what you’re going through but keep your head up and understand “YOU” -NEED-HIS help…..not the other way around. Focus on getting your treatments and getting better. Focus only on that!!!!

Thank you so much for that and please know that you and Anne will have my prayers and positive thoughts throughout your journey. 💜 I don't know why it's so hard for me to tell him what's on my mind. He is very traditonal in his views on marriage, but he is not harsh. He is a kind, loving person, and I don't think he would be angry, unless I just laid a big guilt trip on him. I think my best option might be to look outside of our home to get help. I should have done already.

Ask him to be aware of small things he can do for you and that it would very helpful for the smallest of deeds. He will start slow but he will really see that he can do more and want the reward of helping someone in need. It is an action that is contagious to him as he sees that his love will be recievd be received with gratitude and a woman's smile will always be a blessing to him.

I felt the same way, Heather. So fatigued, sick and dizzy after my fourth round. It was, in fact, the last round because my white count zeroed out. The replenish shot didn't bring it up much either, and my RBC & platelets are still low after 2 years. I'm grateful for the time it's given me, but what a journey! NO one can understand what you're dealing with - including your dear husband, unless they have been through it. You have my prayers for a complete recovery. 🙏🙏 ~ Susan

Do you by chance American Cancer Society‘s phone number? If you need it please send me a DM. There is a ton of resources Like grants that you can get to use to pay cleaning services to come in.

Also, your chemo center should have a Social Worker and they can help explain besides the Dr. & Nurses how the chemo effects your body & steels away your energy.

You’re welcome to DM me so I can give you my number and we can talk. I am a Social Worker in my State but not working now due to my health and it’s driving me insane 🤣 so I am give away free 1 -2 hr counseling sessions here. & at my local chemo center.

Barry, that sounds like a wonderful plan of action, and likely more effective than getting angry and complaining all the time. Susan, you are so right...No one can truly understand the way cancer affects a person physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, etc. They can have sympathy, but not empathy. But I do appreciate those who make an effort to understand. Thank you for your prayer, and I will pray for you as well. 💜 Mechelle, I was given a lot of brochures and things the day I was diagnosed. I know there were things from the ACS, and I've looked at their website and app, but I had no idea that there were resources for getting help with house cleaning. I will definitely contact the social worker today! Thanks for the information. 💜

Many of us donate money to the American Cancer Society just for this reason. So you can reach out to them for help and free resources. I recommend you reach out to them and take advantage of what they have to offer you.

Husbands are sometimes in denial about how bad the effects of this stupid cancer is! Tell him clearly how you are feeling, often. My husband rose to the occasion when he accepted the situation. Then he suddenly died, no indication of any health issues. Now things are difficult on lots of fronts. Fortunately things are under control and I am feeling pretty well as I make adjustments to being alone. Patience with him and communicate so he knows.

Hi Heather: I went through 6 rounds of RChop Chemo and it was brutal just trying to handle all the side effects. I was blessed that my partner was very supportive and by my side 24/7. This time in your life may be one of the most difficult times ever. My suggestion is to focus on staying hydrated and getting enough nutrients (food) when it may be the furthest thing from your mind. If your husband doesn’t step it up and you can’t find help - the housework should not be a priority right now. Your survival is❣️ 🙏🏻💕🙏🏻

If you feel you can’t communicate your needs to your husband that’s a problem.