Hello, my dad is 81 diagnosed a few weeks ago with aggressive lung cancer & told nothing can be done. He’s agreed to chemo but been told this is solely to ease the pain he’s in (in rib as well as lung tissue) Is due to start chemo at Macdermott ward in the Ulster on Monday morning, can anyone tell me can someone accompany him? We’ve been told two different things and are completely confused! I’ve tried calling the unit but have had absolutely no success getting to speak with anyone. He’s had to go to all his appointments alone, even the diagnosis day which was just awful so we’d like someone to be with him at least on this part of the journey. Also this might be a completely stupid question but how long would we expect him to be there every week? And we’d like to pop some things in a bag for him to take that would be useful..would appreciate any recommendations of what would be useful/good for him to have..drinks? Specific things to eat? Read etc...? I’ve read diet helps a lot when on chemo, are there any websites or recommendations please
thank you so much xx
Hi and warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community although sorry that you had to find us and especially sorry to hear about your dad’s diagnosis.
The simple answer to you initial question about a family member being with him has to go to the hospital..... but as you know it is very challenging to get clear answers. We are finding that hospital across the UK are so different and rules are changing daily.
You may find talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer support journey will help you navigate this challenging time and get answers for some of your questions.
The Community is organised into support groups so can I recommend you post in our supportive Lung Cancer and Lung, secondary cancer groups as this will be a good place to connect with patients and families navigating the same type of cancer treatment journey.
To join a group just click on the link above then choose 'click to join' or 'join' (depending on the device you're using) on the page that opens.
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘New Thread’ or hit the box with the X on the top right (phones), you could just copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
Talking with others caring for family and friends will help a lot so do check out our Carers only and supporting someone with incurable cancer group groups as you will connect with others walking the same journey supporting family and friends through their cancer journey.
It’s always good to talk and the Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
Most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here to see what is available and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
((hugs))
