Hello
My Dad has had prostate cancer for 4 years and stayed positive for most of this time. Last summer he had a hospital stay for around a week due to a blockage,
a rectal tumour created a narrowing of the intestine. He came out OK, and for a few months was .. well, average. Eating when he could, but able to have a life.
At the beginning of this year he was rushed to hospital, sudden collapse, blockage again, developed severe sepsis and wasn't aware of anything much around him.
His breathing was terrible, he couldn't eat and after 3 weeks the doctors said that a hospice was the next stage as surgery wasn't an option.
Next thing was, he was down for surgery! He had a stoma, came home and was doing OK - ish. Very weak, but was getting up and getting dressed,
and having small outings most days just for a coffee and cake, but seemingly enjoying the socialising. He also had a coffee at the local pub once a week
with his best friend - and sometimes Mum and I too.
The past 4 weeks or so he has declined mentally ... he says physically he doesn't feel any better or worse ... however he does not get dressed now,
only speaks when spoken to, doesn't laugh anymore, says 'it's his time and nobody can help him now' .. He refuses to admit that he is depressed, and when the
district nurses suggested contacting the GP regarding this he said he would never take anti-depressants. I am at a loss. I go every day I am not working, and try to
jolly things along, but am verging on a mental breakdown now!
I have visited my own GP for help for me, and am awaiting therapy. And I plan to contact my Dad's GP in the next few days for advice .. however any help will be
gratefully received!
