Help with supporting for my dad

Hi everyone

we recently had the sad news that my dads cancer is terminal he has squamous cell carcinoma that has spread to the lymph 

he has recently started his first lot of cemiplimab, he was so excited and positive but ended up in a&e with a raging temperature and a swollen throat so is finding eating a struggle

what I am struggling with his how he is really deteriorating quickly, his tumour under his arm is growing very quickly and he is just so exhausted, he was such an active man and now he can barely walk up the road without it wiping him out

i guess I just wondered how I can best support him and my poor mum who is there by his side morning moon and night, he can’t get out and about and it really breaks my heart seeing him like this

if Anyone has any advice on what to suggest to help with the fatigue or anything I can do or say to help

i Feel so helpless and heartbroken 

thank you

  • Hello Koozykate

    I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad's diagnosis and how he is struggling at the moment. Undoubtedly it's a difficult time for you all. 

    Some of the problems you've mentioned may be side effects of the treatment that he's been having. They could also be symptoms that he's developed as the disease has progressed so it's difficult to say for certain why your Dad is feeling so fatigued. It's certainly worth talking with the team looking after him about your concerns as there may be some additional medications or dietary support that they think is suitable to offer your Dad to try and help improve his quality of life. 

    In terms of supporting both your Mum and Dad, I'm sure that they value everything that you're doing to try and help during this difficult time. I don't know if there are practical things around the home that you can do to try and ease the load whilst your Mum is caring for your Dad. It may be that you're able to offer to spend some time with your Dad whilst your Mum goes out to catch up with a friend or perhaps there is someone else that can stay with your Dad whilst you and your Mum pop out for a coffee and a change of scenery. You might also find it helpful to have a look at this information on our website. 

    If you'd like to chat things through with one of our nurses you're most welcome to give them a call on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5 pm. I'm sure they will be happy to offer any advice and support they can. 

    Sending you all my best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator