Hi there, I am not new to cancer but I am new to it being one of my parents. My dad who has always been a very strong man who worked in all weather as a very intelligent and worldly man was told at the end of January that he had a mass on his right lung. This was worrying news and we were told that he would have a series of tests and they would figure out what type of cancer it was etc. literally days later Dad fell over whilst putting on his trousers and also began vomiting. His GP told him that he wanted him to go for an urgent CT scan on his head. the following day dad went into hospital with brain metastases. The cancer has spread all over and is particularly large at the back of his head. We also learnt that it has travelled into his spine causing weakness and numbness. Dad also now has Covid. which thankfully he has not suffered with too much, but my word his mind has! We were warned that his personality could change. We are just baffled at how fast this has happened. he is fixated on bowel movements and how much battery life his phone has. and he has started to be quite rude to the staff in the hospital. This is SO out of character. Long story short Dad is not able to have chemo/radiotherapy on his head. So its a waiting game right? has anyone else got first hand experience of watching a loved one change so rapidly? and did they get back to normal closer to the end? we don't have a prognosis I understand that the Drs. don't do this unless death is imminent. but Google has given us a pretty grim clue. I am just not ready to live in a world without my dad.
Hi and welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to see you joining us. A cancer diagnosis in the family can be a very stressful and challenging time for all the family but I do hope you find the community a safe place to get support and ask your questions.
The New to Community is like our reception desk where you can be signpost to our various cancer support groups and other services. When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting someone on their cancer journey you may benefit from joining our supportive Family and friends, Carers only and Supporting someone with incurable cancer groups where you will connect with others supporting family and friends.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using) and you are ready to go.
You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post and as always you can reply to existing ‘Discussions’ by click [reply].
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. You may also find our Ask an Expert section helpful but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face when on a cancer journey (patient or family) can be very helpful but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best
Hi and a warm welcome to you as well but as always sorry to see folks joing us.
Can I refer you to the various information I put up for Cneens79 on their post.
I wish you well as you navigate this journey.
It's a pleasure to be able to help out.
