My Dad went for an Oncology appointment today. He first started with symptoms over two years ago and succesfully had a tumour removed, followed by chemotherapy. Everything seemed to be fine on his check-ups, but recently started being symptomatic. A new tumour site was found, with secondary tumours in liver and bone.
It was such a shock to get the news that the cancer had spread. It was so totally unexpected. We were all focusing on the fact that there was a new tumour and then news from the CT scan came down on us like a ton of bricks.
The Oncologist says that there will be a lengthy course of chemotherapy, but that there is no cure.
Everything feels so different from last time. Last time the chemotherapy was fighting the cancer. This time it seems like it's buying time, but the tumours are not going to go away. It's like everything has changed, but at the same time nothing at all has changed. Dad is still Dad. He is well and has been in good spirits. I have still been sitting here on Monday evening, texting my friend about what is happening in Coronation Street. Then I suddenly remember that my Dad is ill and wonder what the next few weeks have in store for us.
I resolve to try to do my best, be positive and be useful!
FormerMember
Dear Worried Daughter,
Poor you. I think it's worse for the family than it is for the person who's ill. All I can advise is to take things as they come and just be there for your dad. Just because something can't be cured it doesn't mean he's going to peg out tomorrow! He might do well on the chemo and go on for ages yet. I know it's scary and sad but try to carry on as normal because that's what your dad will be needing right now. How old is he?
