Colon cancer

We was told yesterday that my dad has T3 colon cancer. MRI has revealed that it doesn't have looked to have spread anywhere else, but the doctors are suspicious on a couple of the lymph nodes so are questioning if the cancer has gone through the bowel wall. I know that the cancer can spread via the lymph nodes, the doctor did say that his bloods test being "normal" was a good sign. He is soon to start radiotherapy and chemotherapy fir 3 to 4 moths to try and shrink the tumor and stop it spreading. An operation is the last resort the doctor said and thats something we will chat about later down the line. Obviously there is a chance the treatment doesn't work, but if it is does, is this enough to stop if spreading from the lymph nodes into other parts of the body. I'm concerned that they don't know for sure if it is in the lmpth nodes. Also, has anyone had an experience dealing with this cancer at this stage as my worst fears are that it will take over his whole body and result in death. 

Parents
  • Hi Becky 2312, and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry to learn that your dad has bowel cancer, this must be a difficult time for you all.

    The treatment will aim to get rid of the cancer cells and reduce the risk of the cancer returning. Unfortunately, it is not until your dad has completed his treatment that you will know how effective the treatment has been, and this uncertainty is difficult to come to terms with.

    It can be an anxious and worrying time seeing someone you love go through cancer treatment. It is important to know that your dad's cancer is treatable and it does not mean that this is going to cause your dad to die. It is best to just take one step at a time and try not to overthink things.

    We have information about how to support someone with cancer and there is also information about looking after yourself on our website which you may find helpful.

    Please feel free to 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

Reply
  • Hi Becky 2312, and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry to learn that your dad has bowel cancer, this must be a difficult time for you all.

    The treatment will aim to get rid of the cancer cells and reduce the risk of the cancer returning. Unfortunately, it is not until your dad has completed his treatment that you will know how effective the treatment has been, and this uncertainty is difficult to come to terms with.

    It can be an anxious and worrying time seeing someone you love go through cancer treatment. It is important to know that your dad's cancer is treatable and it does not mean that this is going to cause your dad to die. It is best to just take one step at a time and try not to overthink things.

    We have information about how to support someone with cancer and there is also information about looking after yourself on our website which you may find helpful.

    Please feel free to 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

Children