Struggling to see dad in pain

My dad was diagnosed with incurable lung cancer with mets to rib, spine and liver on Tuesday after spending 4 days in hospital due to severe pain in his rib for weeks and weeks and being brushed off my GP's countless of times. 
Most of this week he has been okay, he's been slightly active but he's been sleeping a lot and I've noticed he's very breathless after small activity which is scary considering before his diagnosis he never had such thing however he reassures me it's because of his pain taking his breath away, which even the doctors said it most likely the case. 
I'm really struggling to see him in pain as I know it's the cancer which is doing it. He's on liquid morphine and codiene and they don't seem to do much as he is still very uncomfortable. 
I've been prescribed diazepam for panic attacks as I'm getting them frequently throughout the day since my dads diagnosis but nothing will help the sadness I feel seeing him in pain. He was so positive this week but today he has almost crashed and is saying sad things now. I feel helpless

  • Hello Hannahlisa17

    I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad's diagnosis and that he's struggling at the moment. It's never easy to see a loved one in pain and it's understandable that you're struggling. 

    Have you spoken to your Dad's nurse specialist or Consultant about things? If not then do get in touch with them to see if they can help to better manage things for your Dad. 

    In terms of how you're feeling I wonder if you might find it helpful to talk things through with someone? Your local Maggie's centre might be a good place to start or you might like to look at the online or telephone support sessions that Penny Brohn offer. I know that many of our members have found it helpful to chat things through with our team of nruses and if you'd like to speak with them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. I'm sure they will be happy to listen and offer any advice and support that they can. 

    Take care of yourself and keep in touch Hannahlisa17 and let us know how both your Dad and yourself are getting on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator