Hi all, my name is Sian, I'm 60 yrs young and currently a full time carer for my husband (75) who has got lost polio syndrome and mixed dementia ( Alzheimer's and vascular). I found out a couple of days ago that it's highly likely that my father (78) has got prostate cancer which has spread to his hip, back and lung. After researching on Google I realise that it this is correct, he has then got terminal cancer and the prognosis is not good. He is being sent for an MRI scan although hasn't had a date as yet and also will be getting an appointment with the lung clinic. He has refused a biopsy and has told me he doesn't want any invasive treatment.
I'm wondering how long the MRI will take to come through and what the next step will be from there. Physically I can't support my mum, but I'm a great believer in knowledge is power, so the more I learn, the more I can emotionally support her. TIA.
Hi sian and a warm welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about your dad’s diagnosis and your ongoing family challenges.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be so stressful 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 we can signpost you to our various cancer support groups and other services and when it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting someone you may benefit from joining our general Carers only and Supporting someone with incurable cancer groups as these are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and talk with others who are supporting family and friends on their journey.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) link I have created above. Then once the group 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 and our Cancer Nurse Team in 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 so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area.
Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing and provide support for all the family.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best.
