Mesothelioma

1 minute read time.

FormerMember

15 Dec 2009

Hi all,

After months of my dad suffering dramatic weight lost, getting lost and confused whilst driving and my brother and sister having to go and collect him because he didn't know where he was - we finally managed to get him to go to the doctors. Following further blood tests, x-rays, lung biopsy and a CT Scan, my dad was diagnosed last week Tuesday with Lung Cancer and we have been told that it has also spread to his Lymph Nodes, stomach (Kidney and Liver) and that the fluid around the lung also contains cancer cells. My dad is 77 years old, and finally managed to give up smoking 5 years ago after suffering a heart attack and a stroke. Ironically, and although we know that the smoking probably didn't help, the type of cancer he has (Mesothelioma) could have been caused from his exposure to Asbestos during his working history as a General Forman in the construction industry. My mum is in absolute pieces at the moment and my brother, sister and I are also really struggling to hold my mum together on a daily basis. The doctors are unsure of how quickly the cancer is spreading as it has only recently been discovered and they have obviously not had time to monitor it until now, but say that it is incurable. As a way of trying to give him more time, my dad has agreed to start chemo and has gone into hospital today for his first round. I am feeling scared as he is so frail and almost skeletal, its hard to believe that his body will be strong enough to handle this. My dad is and always has a been a realist about life and is very at peace with the diagnosis but is adamant that he doesn't want us to be sad... (which is almost impossible at the moment!) I would love to hear from anyone who can offer some advice and further guidance as to realities of Chemo and what to expect. Thank you!! oh I've just received an update from my brother. Unfortunately, doctors were unable to start chemo today as my dad's blood was too low so they will need to do a blood transfusion on Friday and hopefully start chemo next week Monday instead. Debbie

FormerMember over 15 years ago

Debbie,

I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. My husband was diagnosed with Mesothelioma in September last year. He had fluid drained from his lung, and a VATS biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. He had radiotherapy to the insicion site, follwed by six cylcles of chemo. Like your dad, he suffered very rapid weight loss, and needed blood transfusions during the chemo. Although of course every patient is different, he tolerated the chemo very well, the main problems being tiredness, and a metallic taste for the first week of each cycle. Our GP was able to prescribe a range of high calorie drinks and soups, which we used to supplement his normal diet, and over time, he has put most of the weight back. I hope that chemo will help your dad as it did my huband.

Best wishes

Daffie
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FormerMember over 15 years ago

hi i am sorry to hear about your dad it seems every day there is a new case of meso on this site .

my husband was diagnosed in july this year he is 57, he is now on his 3rd lot of chemo and the only side afects are a black tong for 1 week and he sleeps a lot come the afternoon.

i have not spoke with anyone about his illness and my daughters say i am bottling it all up so on monday i am seeing a contciller at the musterd tree my husband dont feel the need to talk to anyone as it just upsets every one. he is having chemo on 23rd so he will sleep most of xmas, he has a stone and half but is eating well he went of tea for a week .

hope all goes well with dad
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FormerMember over 14 years ago

hi there, my name is sue, my dad was diagnosed with mesothelioma on the 23rd of september, and has amazed me, he has remained possitive and so accepting,,and it all feels very unreal at the moment,he lives alone,although has always been very independent,and at age 79 and a half has enjoyed his independent life but has alwas been my very very best friend, and close to my husband and children,so i am struggling here of how to cope with my own stuff and be the best i can be for my dad,i dont know what next to expect, but so determined, just keep going..i dont know how to be,sorry if this sounds jumbled up but thats how i feel XXX
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FormerMember over 13 years ago
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FormerMember over 12 years ago

Hi my name is Nikki, my mum was diagnosed after a litre lung drain and subsequent biopsy in February this year and given months to live, as terminal mesothelioma, I and my aunt take turns to look after her she is never alone I am the youngest of five children, and feel completely alone. my own family, son 18 daughter 16 husband age unknown havent been a great help. Its difficult enough for me. My mum and I have had our problems in the past and its so sad that now she is terminal she can finally tell me she loves me! Watching the strongest person in my life be reduced to nothing is the hardest thing I will ever have to witness, but I know I have to be strong for mum - but it will never mean is doesnt hurt, My love and strength goes out to all struggling with cancer xx
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