Cancer

Hello. Around four years ago my dad was diagnosed with a tumour in his leg, it was removed and he was reviewed every 6 months or so to make sure it didn't come back/spread.

Last year he found out the sarcoma had come back and this time in his lung. We were told that there should be be no problem removing it so he undertook an operation and woke up only to find out it was too close to a vein so they couldn't operate.

He then underwent chemotherapy and then radiotherapy. These treatments have stopped now and the tumour is at bay, and hasn't spread or got bigger. The problem we all face is that my dad is extremely depressed, he has ups and downs and spends most days In bed. The chemotherapy has seriously done something to him. He has been trying lots of different medications/doctors have been increasing the dosage etc and nothing seems to work. 

He has seen councillors but feels worse when he comes back from seeing them. We don't know what to do. We need help.

  • Welcome to the forum Coll although I'm sorry to hear about your dad's situation.

    It's such a shame that the doctors were not able to operate due to the sarcoma being so close to the vein but it's great that the chemotherapy and radiotherapy have been successful in keeping the tumour under control. 

    It can be so tough trying to help a loved one in this situation but it's great that you have come here to seek advice. Many of our members have been in a similar position and will really understand what your dad is going through right now and I'm sure they will post soon to offer their support and advice. Our specialist cancer nurses may be able to help as well. You can call them for free from a UK landline on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m-5p.m and they will be happy to discuss your concerns.

    In the meantime I have found some information on our website that may be useful. You can read about the side effects from chemotherapy and see if you think anything listed may be affecting your dad. Also, if you click here you can read about managing emotions and there is some infomation about depression and cancer here as well.

    I hope this helps.

    Wishing you and your dad all the best, 

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator