Hi.
Im really not sure whether I should be on a cancer forum, however I wanted to share my dad and my familys' experience over the past 6 months to a year. First you need to get some background: my dad is an 85 year old gentleman, medical history is Parkinsons/ Parkinsons dementia
Unsure on dates on his journey but here goes: stool sample was sent to be tested as my dad/mum had told GP that there was blood present in his stool - lab confirmed blood was present.
Since this, there has been a drastic decline in his mental capacity due to his Dementia.
He currently has lost weight, his blood count/ iron levels are low due to the blood loss from stool - no pain has ever been commented on ( he is on ferrous fumarate for his low iron) also takes 3/ 2mg loperamide every day for his loose stool.
CT colon was then taken out which was last month( 08/25) baring in mind from first having blood present in stool to now has been over 6 months - consultation with Colon consultant (17/09/25) explained a thickening of the rectum 4-5 cm, this has to be investigated further with a colonoscopy.
I should also note that he gets regular blood tests, most recent was to check calcium/bone health - calcium levels are low.
Just today his colorectal consultants assistant explained that it could be 2 - 3 months before he gets an appointment for colonoscopy.
Anyways so the point in my post is, im very frustrated, disheartened at how long this process is taking and fear that the lack of urgency is because of his age and his comorbidities as im well aware, that I myself would probably not recommend treatment if it is Cancer.
Just to let you know that PALS is in England and in Scotland you have PASS (Patient Advice and Support Service Scotland).
Sarah xx
It certainly seems like an unacceptable wait for a colonoscopy, so I hope your mum can get some help with moving things forward for your dad.
Sarah xx
