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My dad

Caroline-louise
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My dad has been fighting lung cancer for 2 years. He was told there was no more treatment available as the cancer spread to his brain. He went into a hospice a couple of days ago. 

The question I'd like to ask is, do you normally get a call if the doctors think he is nearing the end? 

Also some people have said that even though he is unable to communicate with us at the moment and is very confused that he might become more energised right at the end. Is this common in end of life cancer patients? 

  • Hello Caroline-louise

    I'm really sorry to hear about your Dad's diagnosis and that he's now receiving hospice care. It's obviously an incredibly difficult time for you all. 

    Our nurse team have now left the office for the weekend so won't be able to respond to your post until Monday morning but I wanted to suggest that you maybe give the hospice a call and ask them if they would be able to give you a call if they feel that your Dad's condition changes or they feel that he is nearing the end. 

    Hopefully, the hospice team can support you all over the coming days. 

    Sending you my best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about your dad. This must be such a difficult time for your family. It is three days since you sent your post so I am not sure how your dad is at the moment. The hospice nurses and doctors are very experienced at looking after patients towards the end of someone's life and I am sure they will keep the family informed of any changes.

    It is important to let the hospice know who they should communicate if he appears to be going down hill.

    Everyone's slightly different in their final days so it is difficult for us to predict what may happen and if he may become energised towards the end.

    We do have some information about the last few days when someone is nearing the end which you might find helpful.

    I can understand how hard this must be. The nurses and doctors are there to help and support you all so do share how you are feeling.

    You are welcome to ring the nurses on the helpline. Our Freephone number is 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5 pm.

    Take care,

    Catherine

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