Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 2 replies
  • Views 239 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Treating cancer with TB

worddoodles_EP
Offline

My father in law has been bounced around the NHS for 6 months now. He's had 2 different diagnosis for kidney cancer and is into his 3rd oncologist. He's currently got TB (from frequently presenting at A&E because he's so sick). We're being told they can't treat the cancer until the TB clears up but this could be months. We also don't have a clear diagnosis for his cancer.

We feel like the NHS are just leaving him to die and don't know what to do. We don't have a point of contact and anyone we call is a secretary - doctors never call us back.

What can we do to get some answers? He's getting more and more sick every day. 

  • Hello worddoodles_EP

    I'm so sorry to hear about your father in laws diagnosis and the situation that he now finds himself in. 

    Unfortunately, our nurse team is now out of the office for the festive period. They return on Wednesday 28th to 30th Dec 9am to 5pm. Then closed 5pm 30th Dec, back on 3rd Jan 2023 to 6th Jan, as normal 9am to 5pm.

    They will reply as soon as they can but you’re also welcome to contact them on 0808 800 4040 during opening hours.

    In terms of the struggle you're having with getting a response from anyone at the hospital, I'd suggest getting in touch with the hospital PALS team if you've not already done so. Part of their role is to help resolve concerns or problems when you're using the NHS. 

    I really hope that you're able to find a way forwards with this situation soon and that your father-in-law gets the support he deserves. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Hi Worddoodles-EP and thanks for posting.

    It does sound like a worrying time for your family.

    It is very frustrating waiting to hear back from people, especially when you are trying to get information about what the next steps are for him.  I wonder if he has spoken to his GP to see if they have received any information or can contact the hospital doctors.

    Another option would be speaking to the patient advice and liaison service.  They can help resolve concerns and problems about treatment.

    You said that he cannot have cancer treatment until the TB clears up, there is information here about TB and the treatment your father in law can expect to have.

    I hope this is useful and you get some answers soon.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You might like to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Rachel

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.