Hello Kaiser52

I'm sorry to hear that your Dad has been diagnosed with cancer. It must be a difficult time for you both, and it's understandable that you want to do all you can to support him. 

People cope differently when they receive the news that they have cancer. And depending on the type, stage and treatment options that may or may not be available, this can also impact how someone processes what a cancer diagnosis might mean for them. 

Sometimes the person may feel that they want to protect their nearest and dearest, and it can be taken by those loved ones as denial or being shut out. It may be that your Dad wants to protect you from all that he is dealing with at the moment and doesn't want to cause you additional worry, particularly as you don't live nearby. Maybe your Dad wants to keep the relationship between the two of you as "normal" as he can while he is currently dealing with a lot of other changes in his health and daily life. 

We have some information about supporting someone with cancer on our website, and hopefully some of the community members will post soon to share their advice and experiences with you as well. If it would hel pto chat things through with one of our nurses, you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. 

Keep in touch kaiser52, if it helps to have a safe space to put things down in writing, ask questions, or chat with others who understand. We're here for you. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator