My dad is dying from pancreatic cancer

Hi, my father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer right before Christmas 2013. I was there for diagnoses and then had to l tell my mother and sisters. Sorry if my spelling is incorrect, as a type with tears in my eyes. He then had the Wipple procedure. After healing from this serious surgery, he then had chemo. In March of 2014 the oncologist said he had 6 months to live. He decided he wanted to die in New Mexico , my parents have a house there. So my husband and I packed everything and helped him move. My mom soon retired and followed. He saw a new oncologist who was able to prolong his life. Last weekend my dads belly started swelling, as well as his legs . We were told that this is it! Not much longer to live! I am the oldest of my sisters so I am the rock of my family and have supported them. Since this terminal diagnosis I can't seem to keep it together for my self let alone my sisters. All I seem to do is sob. All I keep thinking about is his suffering, being in pain, and why should a wonderful father who's been my solid rock die like this... Then of course I think about my boys, especially my 16 year old, who is close to him, how unfair ... I'm not a young kid, 47, but right now I feel like a little girl who can't stop sobbing because I'm losing my daddy!  I was so strong and didn't cry, until now and I can' t stop! I sound so selfish. I don't know how to cope.

 

 

 

 

  • Hi

    Welcome to the forum and though we would rather not have to 'belong here' from experience I can tell you that it helps in some small way to share with others who may be going through similar circumstances. When we see loved ones in pain/struggling with illness its so very hard to understand it all and our age makes no difference at all.  Please do not think yourself selfish because you love and care and are struggling to cope at this difficult time.  This has not been an easy journey for you, the family or friends who care for your Dad, so in my humble opinion you are entitled to be angry, fearful and definitely emotional at the thought of what's to come.  We all need support at these times so do not feel alone. I hope you can cope on a day to day basis but for forum is always here to offload on and if you need more personal support, do speak to your GP or ring the nurses on this site (free to UK landline and some mobiles) for advice and do not be afraid to talk to other members of your family - mutual support will be helpful.  Its okay to cry,  we need to be able to get some release and if you have  been 'holding back' for some time then it has to hit you eventually.  I hope that your Dad's medical support team can keep him comfortable. Sending a virtual hug.Jules 54

  • Hi, Thank you for your reply, it was what I needed! The support from outside the family is minimal, my parents choice. I really think that has been a struggle. My dad's medical team want him to be comfortable, but he chooses to be tough and strong! Thinking that if he shows weakness that it means it's finally over. Your absolutely right in that it's day to day. So tough not to think of the future. Thank you again, it's nice to hear from someone who knows and understands! Thank you thank you for the virtual hug!budha5

  • Sometimes just writing it down helps and thats why the forum works well for lots of us. There is understanding amongst the community and support if you seek it.

      I know what you mean about you Dad being tough and strong (my hubby was exactly the same and put off having help for as long as he could manage it -( community support came in for the last five days which gave me and the children/grandchildren the ability to chat and relax with him and as we had the bed in the lounge he was able to enjoy the little ones playing too) - and this will be his way of dealing with his own emotions.  Nothing can take away the fact that  you are there for him as and when he wants you to be. Sending peaceful thoughts to you and the family.Jules