My dad has been diagnosed with bowel cancer and has been told there is nothing they can do for him. I feel so bad for him and want to do everything i can to help and support him through this really hard time. Any advice please x
Dear Emily, I am sorry to hear of your father’s diagnosis and that he has no treatment options. The most important thing now is to build a support network around him so he can maintain a good quality of life despite the circumstances. This can consist of family and friends, your district nurse, Macmillan nurses in the community and your local hospice, your dad can access all these things via his general practitioner. Keeping life as normal as possible is important, he’s still your dad and spending quality time with him will help you and him cope. As a general rule men are not good at articulating their innermost feelings but it doesn’t mean they don’t exist, so don’t take any reluctance from him to talk about his prognosis personally we all deal with our cancer in our own way, your job is just to be there for him when he needs you.
best wishes
Jane
Hi and a warm welcome to the online community although I'm very sorry that you've had to find us.
It's natural that you'd want to support your dad with his bowel cancer diagnosis and in this community there are groups that you can join to help. The first one I'd recommend is the bowel cancer group where you can ask questions about treatment, etc and get support from other members who are dealing with this type of cancer. The second group is the supporting someone with incurable cancer group where you can discuss your emotions.
To join these groups just click on the links I've created and then choose 'join this group' on the pages that open. You can then introduce yourself and post your question after selecting 'start a discussion' and join in with existing conversations by clicking on 'reply'.
When you have a minute it would be really useful if could pop something about your dad's journey into your profile as it helps others when answering or looking for someone with a similar diagnosis. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Edit Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.
Sending a supportive (((hug)))
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007