My dad has advanced prostate cancer with spinal mets

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Hi all , I’m feeling so devastated since my dad was informed his cancer has spread to his spine .seeing him suffering kills me.

he is currently under urology but has now been referred to oncology. He has since had a fall and had a week long admission in hospital. But since coming home I can see he has deteriorated and can hardly walk or move due to severe pain .

i just hope oncology will hurry up and get him in for some sort of treatment, he isn’t well and may only be offered radiotherapy, but I’m just clinging onto hope .

Im an only child and my dad is my hero and best friend , I cry most days , it’s when I get home when I’ve been with him all day . My mum tries her best , but is in complete denial that he is terminal . He is only 68 and is no age at all to be suffering like this .

is anyone else going through this ? 

  • Hello  

    A warm welcome to the online prostate cancer group, although I am so sorry to find you here.

    In view of what you have said I think a telephone call to oncology is needed, check they have the details from urology and see if they can expedite some treatment, I would also be checking in with dad's GP to see if you can get some pain relief for dad.

    You also need to look after yourself and mum, do you have a local "Maggie's" near you - this is a cancer charity where you can drop in, have a brew and talk about dad's issues - link here - Maggie's. I would also advise you to call our Support Line on 0808 808 00 00 (8am to 8pm 7 days a week) I am sure they will be able to help,

    Best wishes - Brian.

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    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

    Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.

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  • Hi  

    I am sorry hear about your Dad’s condition. My daughter has been my biggest concern as she teared up every time she saw me. Whilst we may have the cancer, it affects all of those we love the most.

    Have a look at my profile as my cancer has spread to my Spine a year ago. I am fortunate in that I have very little pain, at most I feel slightly uncomfortable late at night.

    My wife has been traveling with me whilst I have been consulting at executive level in Phuket and Bali over the last 3 months in between my Oncology appointments. We see Stage 4 cancer as a manageable disease not as Terminal. Everyday is a gift and we make most of it. There is always hope of a cure. Focus on the things in your and your Father’s control and try not to overthink those things you have no control over. I know this is easier said than done, but work at it.

    I have had several Radiation treatments and they have all been really easy. Of course there has been some discomfort but overall nothing to complain about.

    Take care and ask as many questions as you need.

    Kind Regards 

    Munster

  • Hi 

    sorry to read your post about you dad.  .

    My OH is palliative but no mention from Oncologist of terminal . He cannot be cured and in hormone treatment which kicks the cancer. He also has had  6 fractions of palliative radiotherapy .  

    its maybe something you need clarified as there are different treatments to help your dad . we all jump to think the worst when diagnosed but hopefully your beloved & treasured dad can receive treatment and be pain free.  ( I am not medically minded, just giving an opinion) 

    we find our local Maggie Centre somewhere where you  can talk and be  given the support needed. We find it invaluable.  Somewhere  you all can access .

    hugs & take care 

    Liz & OH xx

  • Good morning Elidanwhi, sorry to meet you here it is very hard on the family as well as the patient. My husband has cancer spread to the bones spine, ribs and pelvis, please read our journey by clicking on my name, there is treatment out there to help and perhaps a phone call the the GP for pain relief and has he got a cancer nurse yet a quick call to them for help as well. Take care and all the best

  • Oncology requested a ct before his discharge from hospital.

    ive rang urology today and she contacted oncology for me . Unfortunately they won’t be able to see my dad until end of August .

    however the wonder cancer specialist nurse from urology has contacted MacMillan, they are coming out on Thursday to visit dad .

    the gp is coming out tomorrow, so hopefully we will get somewhere .

    the great news is that the results from the ct shows no further meta apart from his spine , just hoping they can at least get his pain under control .

    feeling more hopeful than I did amd thanks for your reply 

  • Sorry to hear your OH also is suffering from prostate cancer and hormone therapy is amazing how it brings down the psa levels .

    dad also is receiving hormone therapy and has worked wonders , hopefully once we get his pain under control we will show cancer who is the boss .

    Dad also has other co morbidities including several strokes , he isn’t suitable for most treatments but as long as the HT is working at least it’s stopping the spread .

    take care and sending you both my best wishes 

  • Hello  

    That's great news that dad's getting help from Macmillan and he's seeing the GP. Please do let us know how you get on.

    Do remember to look after yourself as well, being a carer and secretary can leave you drained.

    Best wishes - Brian.

    Community Champion badge

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

    Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.

    I am a Macmillan volunteer.

  • Glad your dad’s on HT . It stops the PC in its tracks. What HT is you dad on and do you what his PSA is ?  

    Remember everyone on this forum is here for you all . 

    Take care & hugs 

    liz & OH xx