Hi

My dad has kidney cancer which has spread to the lungs and spine.

Can anyone put some clarity to this:

When I spoke to the consultant in April he suggested that Dad wouldn't make it to Christmas, but when mum spoke to her GP on Wednesday he told her it will be more like two years.

I don't know which information is more likely or who I can ask for clarity.  My mum doesn't know I spoke to the consultant about this.

Thanks

Steph

  •  

    Hi Rigby Autumn,

    I would think that your dad’s consultant is the most likely person to have some idea. Was he just telling your mum what he thought that she wanted to hear? Nobody knows exactly how long we’ve got on this mortal coil. Even doctors have been way out in their estimates at times. If you really want to know try having another word with his consultant and tell him why you’re perplexed.

    Try not to dwell on how long your dad has, but try to make memories with him and keep him as comfortable as possible.

    It is horrible to watch your loved one deteriorate before your very eyes. I had this with my mum. She started off with breast cancer, but progressed to liver, lung, brain and bone. I still miss her every day, but I didn’t want to see her suffer any longer. Try to deal with things day by day. You will find this much easier for all of you than looking at the bigger picture.

    We are always here to support your family whenever you want to talk. Keep us posted on your dad’s progress.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx