Dad just been diagnosed aged 55

Really sorry.  I really empathise as am also going through the wait for a PET scan. It’s hard to cope with the not knowing.  Really hard.  I’ve been doing relaxations to help me sleep as that is often the hardest time.  Today I dug up the garden and on Sunday did a long run.  It’s great for him to be able to talk to you, it is a horrible shock for everyone though.  I don’t feel able to offer any advice as feeling much the same.  I take heart from the fact that a lot of people have come out the other side .  Sending hope and well wishes 

Don’t panic just yet . I had one enlarged lymph node right on top of the tumour which turned out to be local inflammation and was benign. You will feel a bit better when you have a plan. The only advice I can give for the moment is to deal with one day at a time, if you think too far ahead it makes things worse. Things to focus on for now for your dad are eating really well and exercising . His youth will stand him in really good stead for the treatment 

the other thing I would say is for me personally it really annoyed me when people told me to to “be positive” or how to feel or how to deal with it . That really got on my nerves when I just wanted to be listened to at the start. Also let him worry about himself not you that will be enough for him to deal with. The psychological struggle is often the hardest part. 

I think that’s the worst part isn’t it, the waiting around really makes me anxious. And he is trying to keep busy also, doing the garden and he’s working constantly I think to block his mind. And me too I’m trying to stay positive and I hope you get good news sending prayers and wishes 

Just look after yourself as well.  it’s odd to be a parent and suddenly to be vulnerable as your instinct is to protect your child.  I imagine your Dad needs you but also wants to protect you. My partner needed a bit of space just to be sad and down. That’s ok. 
sending prayers and wishes back x