Hi All,
I'm new here. Yesterday, we were told my dad has only months to live. In May, he was diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma which developed on the tongue. He had a 10 hour operation and grafts on his tongue which required a hospital stay and then 30 rounds of radiotherapy treatment throughout the summer. He is currently on a soft diet and requires SALT input. Everything was going brilliantly and professionals were pleased with progress. Within a few short weeks, he was back in hospital due to developing a large lump near to where he had a tracheotomy in hospital. He was kept in over night and a biopsy was taken. It had also slightly eroded bone. It was believed at first that he may have developed an infection. My dad then developed a lump on his armpit. Ultrasounds compared both lumps were cancer. My dad now is looking at chemotherapy and immunotherapy to control the spread. He is only 57 years old and I am devastated beyond words. My younger sister stayed in the car when we went to see the doctor yesterday and I couldn't even bring myself to tell her how long he has been given. I don't think she even wants to know. My sister has made enquiries about a second opinion at a private hospital and has bought CBD oil as we are desperate to help him. I can't describe the pain I am feeling right now. I am finding myself crying at the drop of a hat. My dad is my hero. I am hoping to find comfort in speaking to others who are going through similar to us at the moment, or at least have been through similar in the past.
Hi and welcome to the Online Community.
I am so sorry to read about your dad’s diagnosis but I hope you will find the support available in the community helpful at this difficult and challenging time.
Talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer treatment path (my one is completely different) will help you navigate this unwanted journey.
The New to Community is like the Community Reception area and as there are many cancer types and experiences so likewise the Community has many support groups but I see you have joined and posted in our Head and neck cancer group as this will be a good place for you to connect with other folks who may be on the same cancer treatment pathway.
When it comes to the practical challenges of supporting someone you may benefit from talking with others caring for family and friends so can I recommend that you join our supportive Carers only and Supporting someone with incurable cancer groups where you will connect with others supporting family and friends
It’s always good to talk so do call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, emotional support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
All the very best ((hugs))
