Dad has stage 4 oesophageal cancer which has spread. I really don't know what to do about the family holiday we have planned for October

Dear Team,

My 81 year old Dad has stage 4 oesophagus cancer, the mass at the bottom of throat is 4cm. it has spread to his lungs and pancreas. He is having 6 sessions of radiotherapy, 3rd one is tm. He is unable to eat anything now. I am unsure if this is due to radiotherapy or if he is getting worse.

We found out at the end of May, so we are already 2 months down the line. I really hate asking this question, but we have a family holiday booked to Florida leaving on 2nd Oct that has been planned for 2 1/2 years. I just do not know to cancel now or to wait.

I know no long has a crystal ball, is he likely to sill be here by Christmas. 

I hope this is ok to ask this question and I realize nothing can be set in stone.

Thank you for your time

Lesley 

  • Dear Lesley,

    Thank you for your post. I am so sorry to hear about your dad. It is so difficult to give a prognosis particularly as we are not involved in his care. You are probably best talking to his team. It is such a difficult decision to make about your holiday as it is still a little while off.

    You may find it helpful to try and attend his next appointment so you can be there in the discussions.

    If your dad has a specialist nurse you could try and talk to them but you would need to get your dad's permission first.

    You may find it more helpful to ring and chat this through with one of the nurses on the helpline.

    The number to ring is freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine