I'm not sure what I'm hoping for, other than if anyone has any similar experience
My Dad was diagnosed 12 months ago with a PSA of 404. It had spread throughout his skeleton and lymph already. He started on the hormone tablets and injections. He then had 6 rounds of chemo which he tolerated well, it stabilised but didn't reduce anything. He hasn't been wanting to eat since the end of June and it has got worse from September. The only food intake the last couple of weeks have been milkshake drinks. We met with the consultant on Monday who told us it had spread to his liver and many mets on his lungs and there is no more treatment they can offer him. He seems weak and struggles to get in and out of bed on his own. The only drugs he is on now is pain killers and steroids to help induce hunger. He hasn't really got out of bed the last couple of weeks apart to go to the consultants which absolutely wiped him out. He seems to get confused easily, and can only manage short conversations.
What should we expect from now? We have had one phone call from the nurse at St Richards Hospice who is ringing again on Monday to see about the steroids and if they are working.
Hello lucasade
Thank you for your post - I am so sorry to read of your dad's condition. Clearly your dad now need some further support and I would advise the following:
* if he's already on the hospice radar contact them and make sure they are aware of his present situation and ask if he would benefit by being a resident at the hospice.
* Contact dad's GP and ensure they are aware of his condition and check if he should be receiving daily visits from the district nurse or cancer nurse specialist.
* Give our Support Line a call on 0808 808 00 00 (8am to 8pm 7 days a week) and check what additional Support they can offer.
Sadly in a case like this you will have to advocate for dad to get him the best care available. I hope the above helps, please do let me know how you get on.
Best wishes - Brian.
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