As we wrap up Thanksgiving festivities, we can’t forget that November is also National Caregiver Month. It is a great time to recognize all the hard work you or your loved one’s mesothelioma caregiver does. 

Across America, there are millions of people who serve as cancer caregivers in a variety of ways. The role of a caregiver can be full of ups and downs and can take a toll on you emotionally, especially if the patient is a loved one. 

Here are 4 reasons to be thankful for your caregiver this holiday season, and every month in between.  

1. Assisting with Daily Tasks 

After patients begin undergoing treatments, they usually have a hard time completing everyday tasks on their own. Many of the mesothelioma treatments, like chemotherapy, can cause fatigue, making it hard to care for themselves without any help. A caregiver can complete tasks such as shopping, food preparation, cleaning and other basic activities. 

Treatment can be hard on the body, so it’s important that your caregiver also helps you maintain a healthy diet. They can prepare nutritious meals to keep your body strong and improve your overall prognosis.

3. Monitoring Health 

It’s important that patients have someone around to monitor their health for any sudden changes. This ensures that their doctors can treat any problems that may arise quickly. 

A common symptom in pleural mesothelioma patients is pleural effusions. The pleural membrane fills with fluid and the tumor then moves from its point of origin. Patients will then experience restricted lung expansion which results in hindered breathing. 

A caregiver will be able to help relieve some of this discomfort while you are at home by draining the effusion and giving you oxygen. 

4. Provide Support

Oftentimes a mesothelioma diagnosis comes suddenly and patients are left with little time to adjust to their new life with cancer. Caregivers are an essential part of your cancer journey by keeping your spirits high and making sure you’re not alone. Knowing you have someone to count on during this difficult time is a critical part of the caregivers job.

2. Handling Financial & Legal Issues

Like most diseases, mesothelioma is a costly cancer to treat. Patients are usually not able to pay these medical costs out of pocket and don’t want to place a financial burden on their family. For this reason, most patients seek legal representation in order to receive compensation for their cancer. 

Your caregiver can act as an administrator when it comes to communicating with lawyers and making arrangements. With this help, you can focus more on your recovery and spending quality time with family.

If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, there are financial compensation options available for you. Contact us today to see how we can help you and your family get the compensation you deserve.