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Can I refuse treatment for my dad who has had a stroke

Amtb
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My dad had a life changing stroke a month ago. He also has Prostate cancer. 
At the time of the stroke he was not expected to recover so they stopped his cancer medication and treatment, he is now stable but has been left mentally disabled and cannot make any decisions for himself. 
he had always told us that he wouldn't want to live if he didn't have quality of life and we therefore don't want the doctors to treat his cancer even though he is stable. 
Can we request this as his family and let nature take it's course? 

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    I assume he did not make any written refusal of treatment nor lasting power of attorney. You can certainly make your and by proxy his views known. Whether or not will be followed I know not.

    Does emphasise the importance of everyone of any age making necessary written and legally binding statements of their wishes  -  too often too late (like making of Wills!).

  • Welcome to the forum Amtb although I'm very sorry about your dad. This must be incredibly difficult.

    The Mental Capacity Act is designed to protect and empower people who may lack the mental capacity to make their own decisions about their care and treatment. I hope the information given on the webpage I've linked you to will help but it may be worth talking things through with Citizens Advice as you'll be able to get more information and advice from them about this.

    I hope this proves to be a good starting point and you're able to carry out your dad's request.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Hi there

     

    You don't have a legal right to refuse treatment on behalf of your dad - if he's no longer able to make his own decisions (and hasn't made an advance refusal of treatment or a lasting power or attorney as dj says), then the health team have to provide care that is in his best interests.   It is a good idea to chat to the team about what he has said to you before he had his storke and whether they think prolonging treatment is in his best interests, bearing in mind his current health conditions and his prior wishes 

     

    Good luck x

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