Hello wonderwoman2906.  I am sorry to hear that your father has a terminal diagnosis.    I don't think there is anything you are supposed to feel and I expect if you asked your question of 100 different people you might get 100 different responses.    It is very difficult news to take in and some people go into denial and refuse to believe it is happening.  Others have a very physical response as they take in what is the most appalling shock.  Some feel they are to blame in some way.  Others are just frightened. Some want to talk about it; some don't.   And so on.  Whatever you feel it is the appropriate response for yourself. 

Once the initial shock has settled slightly people again do different things.  Hopefully you will get togther with your family and make some decisions on how best to care for your father.  If you find that you are having difficulty in coping there is help at hand.  There are nurses on this website (Freefone 0808 800 4040 9am-5pm Mon-Fri) who will talk things through with you.   Also MacMillan Cancer Support (Freefone 0808 808 0000) will give help and advice to anyone affected by cancer in any way.

Am not sure if this is the kind of response you were seeking!  If we can help you further please feel free to come to this site at any time.  Best wishes.  Annie

Hi,

Welcome to the forum, sorry to read about your Dad's diagnosis. Annie is right, there are no right or wrong ways to deal with this, a lot will depend on how your Dad wants to handle it. At one extreme I told everyone about my diagnosis and even posted about it on Facebook as I didn't want any misunderstandings or embarrassed silences. At the other extreme, I've known people who keep the news a secret as they don't want others interfering or making a fuss. Neither approach is wrong, just different ways of coping. 

Just don't ignore it for too long, or you may find it hard to start talking to your Dad about it and there are bound to be things you both want to talk about, both practical and emotional things.

Best wishes

Dave

I lost my Dad to bone cancer 4 years ago and I remember that numb feeling well. My brother and I nursed him to the end and he passed surrounded by those who loved him.  I found out tonight that my mum has very little time also as she has cancer. I can only say you are on the toughest journey of your life but you will survive. I’ve been trying to read as much as I can about the afterlife in the hope that I will see them again one day. Stay strong. You will surprise yourself with your strength xxx