Terminal lung cancer - chemo affecting brain?

Hi my father got one treatment of chemo and since then he hasn't been himself mentally is this normal? Thanks 

Parents
  • Hi Nicole,

    It could be the chemo, but it is just as likely to be all the stress and fatigue associated with both receiving the diagnosis and starting the treatment. Mentally adjusting to the new reality takes time and hits us all differently.

    Is he sleeping and eating OK?

    Best wishes

    Dave

  • Hi Nicole ... please mention your concerns to your dad's consultant.  Like Netty's husband, I had similar difficulties.  I put it down to 'chemo brain' and stress etc., when actually the disease had spread to my brain.  This needs to be checked out.  All the best x

  • My dads key worker is useless! We rang when he was taken in and she told us to speak to the nurses. No support what so ever. So I won't be asking her anything unfortunately - my dad has been home a week and she hasn't even called to check up. The hospice people have and the district nurse but the support we were promised has been non existent. 

  • That's sad to hear Nicole. I don't think a keyworker would be making decisions regarding possible Mets etc., it is your Dad's consultant or oncologist who will need to be told about your concerns and arrange further investigations if appropriate. If you are not feeling supported by the KW, tell the oncologist that too. They can't take action and help unless patients tell them their fears, or about difficulties with a team member who may need further guidance and training.  The very best to you and your family x

  • We have been told my dad has months to live - this is so hard. Still no support from macmullan nurse - I'm absolutely devastated.

  • That's terrible news, I know that nothing anyone says will help, but I hope you and your Dad are coping. .
     

    Best wishes
    Dave 

  • Oh Nicole, that is such sad news - I am sorry that you and your family are coping alone with all this. I am in a similar situation to your Dad (with a different type of cancer) and can only suggest that you go to see your GP and tell them that you need a referral for palliative care.  She/he should then get in touch with the district nurses and McMillan in your area, who should swiftly contact you.  If they don't, PESTER them until they do and ask your GP to as well.  You can also contact PALS at your local hospital (patient's liaison service) and ask for their input in getting help and support for Dad.

    I am thinking of you all at this difficult time - I hope your Dad stays as comfortable as possible and you and he can have some quality time together making special memories to cherish.  My children and I just love chatting and a walk - it's just being together that is important.

    Please keep in touch x

  • Hi thank you. I had emailed macmillan And the hospital they were calling me and we were getting something sorted but sadly my father passed away on Friday- macmillan did not help him at all. Once my head is straight I'm contacting everyone I can to out these disgusting unhelpful pathetic people.  I'm very bitter. I wish you all the best and thank you 

  • I am really sorry to hear that your lovely Dad has passed away - my thoughts are with you all. 

    I am also so sorry to hear you have all suffered from such a lack of support and understand completely why you feel bitter.  Give yourselves a little breathing space - you have been through so much - then I think you may be right to ask questions as to why help was not available when you needed it.  Although sadly it will not now benefit your dear Dad or yourselves, it may help improve the care of others faced with losing a loved one.

    Sending you a warm virtual hug and my sincere sympathy.  Much love to you and your family x

  • Thank you I'm sending hugs back to you enjoy your Christmas as much as possible - I got a photo book for my dad for Xmas unfortunately he wont see it but it's beautiful and we will always have it xxx

  • Thats lovely Nicole, and thank you for your kind words.  There is another young lady who has lost her Dad last week on the thread by joycejoyce - I think it is titled I Cant Cope (or something similar).  You may like to post each other as you will know so well how each other are feeling.  Much love x

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  • Thats lovely Nicole, and thank you for your kind words.  There is another young lady who has lost her Dad last week on the thread by joycejoyce - I think it is titled I Cant Cope (or something similar).  You may like to post each other as you will know so well how each other are feeling.  Much love x

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