Dads delayed treatment

My dad had a pet scan in 2024 which found an active cancer deep his in lung. He’s not fit enough to undergo a biopsy due to his high risk of general anaesthetic. 2 months after finding the lung cancer, they noted an irregularity from the same scan in his throat which had been missed. We’re now on month 4 of diagnosis and still no treatment due to delays in having a biopsy of the throat. He was due to have a biopsy under local anaesthetic but this was denied due to the consultant requesting multiple biopsies and dad not tolerating the exams very well. The consultant has demanded biopsies under general anaesthetic. The anaesthetist only agreed to the procedure as the consultant believes he will only take 15 minutes to perform dads throat biopsies but he has made it very clear that there’s a very high chance dad will not wake up from the anaesthetic or there may be need for intense resuscitation. Dad has a DNAR in place due to not being fit for resuscitation but they are wiping this for the day of the procedure. He is due his biopsy under GA on Thursday and I’m petrified. Dad is petrified. Dad was adamant that he has the strength to fight and beat the cancer but he’s so scared he won’t fight the GA. Has anyone else ever experienced this? I can’t compose myself out of fear of what will happen on that table

  • Welcome to the forum Gabby although I'm very sorry to hear about your dad.

    This must be an incredibly scary and stressful time for you both, but we are here for you Gabby and will do all we can to support you in your time of need.

    I hope some of our members who have been in a similar situation will be along soon to share their experiences and advice, but if it would help to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They are there to listen and will do all they can to answer your questions and ease your mind at this anxious time.

    I know I can't take away the fear or uncertainty of what's to come but I hope it helps to know that our thoughts are with you Gabby and we're wishing your dad all the very best for Thursday.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator