Dad has throat cancer and is visually declining

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Hi, my dad is 83 so a good age but has throat cancer (and liver and bowel cancer). I'm noticing a weekly deteriation now and he's losing his appetite (advised he's slightly hungry but says when he eats a couple of spoons says he's full)? I've read that this is the cancer as it releases a hormone?

He is starting to lose weight, looks pale, tired etc and I think he is slowly dying.

He has palliative care (not at his house) and I call him.every day and visit a couple of times a week. He is fiercely independent and I'm looking at getting a camera installed so I can keep an eye on him as he does not want to live with me and it's too early for a hospice etc as they advised my dad needs to be very close to dying. I feel heartbroken and any info, advice, what to look out for please?

Many thanks xx

  • Hi Lisa

    I am so sorry to hear of your father's deterioration. It is really hard when someone who has been so integral in your life is declining in their health. My father recently passed away at the age of 98. He had a wonderfully long life and although he did not have cancer he slowly declined over a few months, hardly ate anything and just faded away. It was so sad to see it and even though my brother and I encouraged him to eat and made the food he liked he would only eat a few mouthfuls and then decline any more. It was hard to watch. Like us you can only remember the good times when your father was healthy and cherish the memories. Our father had to go into care eventually because he became so weak. Before that we used to take it in turns to visit daily and had a carer from one of the agencies visit too as he lived alone. We also got him a personal alarm that he wore all the time so he could get help if needed. Would your father allow a carer to visit him daily to heat up some food and encourage him to eat a few mouthfuls? You can only be supportive and be there for your dad. He will appreciate it.

    Sending you hugs at this hard time.

    Lyn

    Sophie66

  • Thanks so much for your lovely message Lyn. Yes getting a daily carer is a great idea and I will try to persuade him. Thanks so much and so sorry to hear about your loss too xx