My father-in-law (who is 88 years old) was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer at the end of April 2024. The results from a camera down the throat said it was Stage 2/3 spread to 2 or 3 lympth nodes. The oncology consultant at beginning of June said that they cannot cure the cancer, cannot do surgery, cannot have chemo. He has had a stent fitted back in May. He has lost over 3 stones in 3 months and it is like hugging a skeleton. He is having pallative care. He is able to still do things by himself. Just recently had another CT scan as he does'nt want to eat as feeling sick and waiting for another camera down. Not sure if the stent has moved, the tumor has grown or if the cancer has spread. It is a matter of a waiting game as to know how long he has left. The only family that can help him is myself and my husband, but he has got friends that take him to bowls. I would like to know what is the best thing to do. Do I help him with everything when the time comes? Do I get him to get cleaners in to do the housework (as he is getting £100 a week)? He has told us, and put it in writing, where he wants his ashes put, but has left it up to us whether there is a funeral or not. I am getting a bit overwhelmed. Any suggestions please.
