Looking for advice - do I go on holiday?

My Dad was told 2 weeks ago that his cancer is terminal and he only has up to 3 months to live.

I am due to go on holiday abroad for 2 weeks on 1st of July with my wife, 2 sons, sister in law, niece and nephew but I'm torn over whether or not to go.

Things have been tough for my Dad in the last few weeks and he has been in and out of hospital and often in a considerable amount of pain. It's really taken it's toll on my Mum so I have been on hand to support her as much as possible.

He is in hospital just now but he will hopefully get home in a few days. The prognosis of 3 months hasnt changed but I am worried that if I go on holiday and something happens when I'm away that I wont be there to support my Mum.

I have discussed it with my wife and we have 3 options:-

1) Go on holiday as planned and hope that my Dad remains stable.

2) Cancel the holiday completely.

3) I dont go on holiday but my wife and 2 sons go for a week with the rest of the party.

Option 3 is my preference because my sons were devasted to hear about my Dad's illness and I dont want to upset them further.

Has anyone else ever been in a similar situation?

Thanks

  • Take your holiday, its very important for your family. The holiday will give all of you the energy both physical and emotional that you will need to help your dad in the coming months. Could you arrange for someone else to practically help your mum with care, perhaps pay someone to help out. You seem a very caring and dutiful son and I'm sure your dad would not want you to miss your holiday either. Whatever you decide I wish your family all the best through these difficult times.

  • I am so sorry to hear this, you are an incredibly difficult situation. 

    If you aren't leaving until July 1st, I personally would continue on as if you were going on the holiday as planned, and when the date comes, see how well your father is doing. I know it doesn't seem much comfort as he could decline rapidly, but as Kimchoson said, I think it is so important that you go in holiday if possible, for the sake of yourself and your family. You have been a rock, and a break would do you so much good! 

    Best wishes to you and your family