Hi everyone my name is Tiff and my dad was diagnosed with non small cell lung cancer just before lockdown. He has had immunotherapy and finished his last round of intensive chemo last week. He has had his picc line removed and is have fluid build up drained from his lung regularly. He is still taking chemo tablets and was 80 on Saturday. He was told initially by his consultant to restrict certain foods but as his intensive chemo is now finished is this still the case does anyone know? Thank you.
Hi Tiff and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your dad's journey.
A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type and support challenges can help a lot. As for your question it's always best to contact his clinical team as they will give you clear information based on your dad's history.
But the Community is actually divided into dedicated Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I also recommend you consider joining our supportive Lung Cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from family members who are navigating the same journey.
When it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting family and friends you may also benefit from joining our Carers only support group where you will connect with others navigating the same support challenges.
To join a group first click on the “Bold Links” I have created above then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)
You can then put up your own post when you’re ready by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post. You can also scroll through other members posts and click “Reply” to get involved.
Our Support Line teams are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on freephone 0808 808 00 00, email or live webchat where you will find one of team there to help you out. We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Do get back to me if you need further help.
Do you know why your dad was told to restrict certain foods? It's often because those foods carry with them a risk of infection. If that's the reason in your dad's case then it's important to know that he will continue to be immunocompromised for some time. I had to take medications to guard against infection for a full 6 months after I finished chemo.
Mike's posted the link to the lung cancer forum, but the best answer is always to ask your treating team and make sure you clarify the reason. Different doctors do things differently.
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