My dad is dying

 

I've never done something like this before but I'm hoping it might help me come to terms with everything. 

My dad was diagnosed with bowel cancer in February this year and after receiving chemo/radiotherapy and having surgery to remove the tumour it looked like he was going to make a full recovery. However a week ago we found out that the cancer has returned and there was nothing else they could do for him. He has deteriorated so much that they don't think he'll even make  it to Christmas . It's hard cause he doesn't even look like my dad anymore. 

 

 

  • So very sorry to hear of your dad's diagnosis.  Watching someone deteriorate is a terrible thing, but you know, it's still your dad.  When he looks in a mirror it must hurt him, too, and he will know how people are feeling.  Just remember, that person inside is the same as ever and all he will want is to know you are there.  You sound very caring and it's understandable that your emotions are all over the place and you don't know how to cope.  Remember, you don't have to be strong - if you need to, just cry. 

    Thinking of you, with my very best wishes.

  • Ow that's a fast decline.

    Sounds you just need to be strong and accept that it isn't going to be pretty but that you're just going to need to be there for him. Chat with him about happier times, maybe read him the paper or a book if he can't for himself doesn't sound as if you've much time left try to make the most of it as much as you can.

    Are you or is someone else in your familly planning to be there with him at the end? Talk to the palliative care team at the hospital. When my wife was dying they were great - it's their job to make these last days as easy as possible. Don't be afraid to ask them what to expect what it'll be like - it makes it easier if you have some sort of idea.and we don't really talk about it much I had no idea whether it would be like in films or what

     

  • I totally understand my dad has bone and prostate cancer he has been doing amazing then about a month ago he went down hill fast. They can't get his pain under control weight is just falling off him and more heartbreaking he doesn't look like my dad.So he has now been taken into hospice care which I know is the right thing for him right now. I don't know how you prepare to lose a love one but be assured you are not alone. Everyone deals with these situations in their own way.