New diagnosis

Hi  and welcome to the Online Community but I am so sorry to read about your dad’s diagnosis but I do hope you will find the support available in the community helpful at this difficult and challenging time.

When it comes to the practical challenges of supporting someone with this type of diagnosis you may benefit from talking with others caring for family and friends so can I recommend that you join our supportive Family and friends, Carers only and Supporting someone with incurable cancer groups where you will connect with others supporting family and friends

Navigating the community will depend on the device you are using. To join a group just click on the green link above then scroll down and choose 'click to join' or 'join' on the page that opens.

You can then introduce yourself by putting up a post by clicking  on ‘New Thread’ or ‘New here, say hello’ then hit the box with the X on the top right (phones).

You could just copy and paste the text from this your first post and you can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.

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, benefit and financial guidance or just a listening ear.

All the very best ((hugs))

Hi and welcome to the online community

I'm very sorry to read that your father has oesophageal cancer which has spread to his lungs and liver.

I can see that you've already joined the oesophageal cancer group which is a great place to ask questions and share experiences around his treatment.

I think you would also benefit joining the supporting someone with incurable cancer group where you could talk about your dilemma of telling your father about his prognosis. However, is the reason that he doesn't know because he doesn't want to know so hasn't asked? This sort of information wouldn't normally be withheld from a patient unless they didn't want to know.

x

Hi Megan

My Dad was diagnosed with Mesothelioma (asbestos cancer incurable) this week we found out that following a trial his tumours have increased by 25-50%. 

I don't know how long he has. My Dad is 75. This is so difficult to deal with isn't it? Up until now my Dad has been believing that the trial may save him. Like you I was struggling with how to talk to him about it. 

How are you getting on? 

Jo x

Hi Jo.

I am still in shock as to how quick it has all happened, just a few weeks. We have an appointment with consultant on Wednesday to ask questions etc, I'm struggling with the diagnosis and with how to tell him, either way he needs to know by that appointment.

Megan.x

I know it's really tough. My Dad has been so strong which has been helpful for me and my ability to cope but this weeks news has really taken the wind out of our sails. My Dad said recently has had to have a catheter fitted as his bladder had swollen and fluid has accumulated in his left leg so not sure what that is. He said that this is no quality of life. It's so so sad x

Sorry to hear that, it certainly is a cruel disease..x