Stories of Hope
Mr. Munusamy
NO. OF DAYS CARED FOR : 151
Aged 60 years, Munusamy was from a poor socio-economic background. He had not been earning for about four months due to his illness (cancer of the scrotum). His wife is a flower vendor. His son, who is an autodriver, supports him. Fortunately, they have a one-roomed hut to call their own. Munusamy noticed a painful lump in the scrotum 3 years ago. After some unsuccessful treatment by local doctors, he was referred to a large hospital, where he was found to have cancer of the urethra. This had invaded the scrotal skin and made a huge ulcer with a large pocket of pus discharging through sinuses.
DEAN Foundation's Palliative Care team visited him, and recorded the history of the disease. After examination, the ulcer, which was filled with pus and dead tissue, was cleaned. The fungating, foul-smelling ulcer required a special type of dressing to allow for maximum comfort even while mobile. Morphine tablets, antibiotics, antiemetics, vitamins, etc. were given to combat the severe pain and other discomfort. He was given IV drips occasionally to counter the weakening effect of the disease. He expired on 17 March 2007.
Keywords: Rural healthcare services, Palliative care, Hospice care, Pediatric Palliative Care, End-of-life care, Symptom management, Holistic support, Emotional counseling, Family training, Patient dignity.