How will I know when my partner is close to dying?

Hi i am George (Georgina)

My partner Rich was diagnosed with advanced bowel cancer 18 months ago. He responded really well from the chemo. And had a stoma. His tumours shrank. And they were able to cut it out of his liver. He also had his gallbladder removed. However the scan he had at 6 weeks post surgery, showed a 3cm tumour had grown on the cancer free side. He hasn't had any treatment for 6 months. The cancer is now aggressive. 

He has lost 10 kg in 3 months. His appetite is not great, he does his best to eat. But if u can't u can't.

He is skin and bone and i think he has cachexia. It doesn't help that the bowel tumour has grown in to his bladder. He is constantly on the toilet trying to pee 24/7. He is not getting enough sleep. He has no energy. 

He now weighs 60 kg. 

How much more weight can he lose before it's fatal?

When will I know he only has weeks to live?

Thanks G

  • Hello George

    I'm so very sorry to hear about Rich's diagnosis and the situation that you both find yourselves in. It sounds like it's been a real rollercoaster since his initial diagnosis and it's understandable that you may have questions and concerns about how the coming weeks and months will unfold. 

    We have some information on our website about dying with cancer that may help with your question but I wanted to ask if you have any support in place. Is Rich under the care of the local palliative team or is he having contact with health professionals on a regular basis? Hopefully you are both being well supported but if not then please do get in touch with his GP to ask for support from the palliative team or the local hospice service. They should be there to help and support you both as you navigate this difficult time and to ensure that Rich is as comfortable as possible. 

    If it would help to talk with one of our nurses you're welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Keep in touch with us here at Cancer Chat if it helps to have somewhere to ask questions, chat with others who understand or simply have a safe space to put down in writing how you're feeling. We're here for you. 

    Sending you both my best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator