How long is end of life?

My dad has stage 4 Colon cancer which has metatasised to his liver. He also has cancer in his prostate and they think a bit in his lung too.

He was advised to stop treatment back in August.

He is 79 and wont be honest to us about he's feeling.

How long is he likely to have left?

My mum has demetia so trying to put in plans.

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat Lisab12345 although I'm very sorry to hear about your dad. This must be an incredibly difficult time for you and your family, especially when your dad is not telling you how he feels.

    The question you ask is a very difficult one to answer as everyone is different but if you have your dad's permission, you could discuss this with his medical team as they will be in the best position to tell you how long he may have left. 

    I hope this information we have about what happens in the last few weeks and days of life will be useful, but if it would help to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very insightful and will do all they can to answer your questions.

    You may find it helpful to get in touch with Marie Curie as well as are the UK's leading end of life charity and experts in caring for people with a terminal illness.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator