What can I do to help?

My Dad (73) has just been diagnosed with stage 3 cancer in the neck and will start radiotherapy soon. We have been given warnings of losing the ability to swallow and eat so may get a trach and feeding tube, I’m putting together a little basket for him with things that may help like difflam spray to help numb the area when it’s too painful to eat, some vitamin D tablets to help his immunity as he can’t get it from the sun and his diet will be difficult with the lack of food, I’ve read that you can get mouth sores and dry mouth and lips so will add some Vaseline in there but if anyone has any suggestions please let me know  - thank you so much in advanced! 

  • Hi, and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry to read that your dad is waiting to have radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. I imagine this is a difficult time for you and your family.

    It sounds like a great idea to have a basket of things that will help him during his treatment. I am not sure there is much more to add except perhaps if he is interested in reading, some books, magazines, or puzzle books might be a good addition,  as there may be times that your dad has to hang around at the hospital, and for some people, it can be helpful to have a distraction. It might also be worth, having a chat with your dad and checking with him if there is anything that he feels he might need that would be helpful.

    We have information on our website with tips on how to support someone with cancer both emotionally and practically which you can read here.

    Macmillan Cancer Support also has information which may also be useful to read here.

    I hope this is helpful for you. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful 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, all the best

    Jemma