My father has been diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. I am keep myself strong infront of my father but internally i am broken. Can you let me know if he will leave more? We have started with chemo. What changes will come in my father?
My father has been diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. I am keep myself strong infront of my father but internally i am broken. Can you let me know if he will leave more? We have started with chemo. What changes will come in my father?
Dear Adxb,
Thank you for contacting Macmillan. My name is Kelly and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line. Welcome to the online community.
What an incredibly stressful and worrying time for you right now. It is always difficult when a loved one is diagnosed with cancer and as you say you try not to show any worries outwardly but have so many fears inside.
It’s normal to have lots of questions at this time. Especially how well the chemotherapy is working and how well your father will cope with any potential side effects.
We know that the uncertainty and not having all the answers can lead to thoughts about more difficult questions such as life expectancy or how long someone is expected to live for. There are many factors which can affect this such as the stage of cancer at diagnosis and how well someone responds to treatment.
Only your fathers consultant is going to be able to give you an understanding of what this would be for your father if this is something you want to know.
As we’re not involved with your fathers NHS care or able to review medical information here it’s difficult for us to guide you more specifically with the questions you have right now.
We would encourage you to get back in touch with your fathers consultant or named Pancreatic Cancer Nurse Specialist if he has been given one at the hospital. As they are directly involved with his care, they will be able to give you accurate advice and support with any concerns.
Our questions guide may help with this to make sure you are able to get the most benefit from any appointments you have with the doctor.
Although we understand that your concerns for your father are the priority at this time, it’s important to look after yourself too.
I’m not sure if you have had a chance to explore our supportive groups on the online community? This includes our carer and family and friends group where the support from others with similar experiences can be invaluable.
Penny Brohn UK an online wellbeing platform has resources for anyone supporting a loved one with cancer to look at.
We also have a supportive phone helpline if you would find it easier to speak to one of the nurses. This would allow the nurses to ask more questions to get a better understanding about what is happening with your father. You can phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm).
I do hope you found this information helpful. Please do not hesitate to get back in touch with us if you need further support.
Take care,
Kelly
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref: KA/AT
