Hi to all out there! I feel like I have lived on this bloody computer since my Dad got diagnosed 2mths ago! We live in New Zealand, and are trying to get a grip of what is going on and would love to here of positive stories from anyone else going through the same thing!
My Dad has always been a fit and healthy man. He was concerned with a lump he felt in his tummy... after testing we found out this was liver mets from advanced colon cancer! He has been tender in his tummy, but not in pain at all. He started chemo 2 cycles ago, with xeloda tabs and oxaliplatin. I am worried that living in little old New Zealand that my DAD may not be getting the best treatment, that there maybe better things out there! He is a fit man and has a better appetite than he has ever had, so we are hoping all of these factors will make him respond well to the treatment. I would love to hear from you all x
OK, here goes for my reply to Rhiannon for the 4th time! Silly old site, wouldn't let me post anything - - - let me tell you 'lost for words' is something I am never! he he he!
Rhiannon, firstly welcome to our group here, and I'm pleased you have found us at this very hard time. My Dad battled this diesease, and along the way found out a lot, so if I can help in anyway please just ask. I can imagine it must be very hard to have your Mum go through this, when she is leaving you in the dark, as far as information goes. Parents, don't won't to worry their children and percieve that they should be the stronge one, always in control as they have always, but unfortunately when it comes to cancer - they need all the help and support we can offer. I remember when Dad was first diagnosed and he told me that 'he and Mum can handle this' - and I told him that that's why you have family Dad, so you don't have to do it by yourself - thankfully for me he didn't disagree. Though I know that he always thought that he was 'putting' me out (old school parents ahe!). Have you tried that approach with your Mum, and explained that you are beside yourself with worry and would really appreciate knowing more details and being able to help here. I tried to go to every appointment that I could with Mum and Dad, and thankfully they let me. The couple of appointments that I couldn't go to, I was really baffled at what the Oncologist had said, and to be honest so were they - (like I said, old school and don't like to question thing when they don't understand). I emailed Dad's Onc on one occassion to understand what was going on, and he was more than happy to fill me in indepth via email, and also suggested meeting with me to explain things better. He was happy to do this because he knew that I normally I would have been there. What about that approach with your Mum? If she would sooner have her privacy at her appointments, maybe she could give her Onc, to inform you of what is going on via email, or phone? Just a thought. I know it can be hard, as parents can be stubborn!
It does sound promising that the chemo has had a reduction to the tumors Rhiannon, don't be scared to ask more questions (if your Mum lets you!), and to seek a second opinion, I think all will agree that along this journey you learn to speak up, and keep asking questions! I found a strength I never knew I had! Good luck Rhiannon. 
I hope all is Ok with the rest on here. Jacqui, are you home yet? I hope things with AL have settled down, and that you enjoyed your holiday.
Love to all~ Jules
