Hi all
First post here.
My dad was diagnosed with stage IV cancer 3 weeks ago. He's fit and strong and showing no clear symptoms (mild nausea, slight lack of appetite). One of the fittest 70 year old's you'll ever see!
I want to support him during his chemo. I want to be available to take him to his appointments and generally be there for him. I only live 15 minutes away, so I can always pop over if need be. My question is, when he's going through chemo, should I stay clear? I don't want to risk passing COVID on to him (we're both x3 jabbed).
The only other issue is, I work at a hospital. I should be able to work from home though
It's a difficult question I know, but how much is your immune system effected? Will being vaccinated provide any benefit while he's suppressed?
How are other people dealing with this?
Many thanks
Hi JN1990 and I see its your first post so welcome to the Community.
Yes, this is a difficult question to give any thoughts about. When someone goes through chemo (I have had 750hrs) any infection is a problem not just covid so in normal none covid times when I was having my treatment we were basically following the same guidelines as now....... we were even wearing masks in hospital 7-8 years back as my immune system was very fragile - everyone thought we were nuts..... not now.
How his immune system will be effected relates to the strength of treatment he is having but during chemotherapy the time when the immune system is most vulnerable is normally days 7-14 post treatment. This is when there is an increased risk of infection but for some people the recovery can take longer but his team will be able to advise you as to how he is doing.
He may get an infection regardless of vaccinations...... it's the winter so a simple cold can tun into more demanding infections. Its all about controlling who he sees, keeping people with bugs clear from him, controlling where he goes and what he does.
You don’t say what type of cancer your dad has but if you care to have a look through this list you will find all our many dedicated cancer support groups listed. When not join the best group for his cancer and talk with people who understand this type of treatment.
When it comes to the specific practical challenges of supporting someone on their cancer journey you may benefit from joining our supportive Carers only group where you will connect with others supporting family and friends.
