I'm so sorry to hear about your dad's decline. It is extremely puzzling how anyone can deteriorate almost over night. I experienced a similar situation as my dad was your dad's age 78! He lived with me and he walked everyday, we went to a fleamarket EVERY weekend, and he'd go with me everywhere I went whether it was shopping, running errands, etc. Dad was ALWAYS there with me. Then suddenly he wasn't. Doctors found a 7cm tumor in his right lung. It was Stage 4 Non Small Cell Lung Cancer. We declined treatment as it would've been too aggressive for him, and we preferred quality of life VS quantity. We didn't want him to undergo aggressive treatment and suffer more and longer. From diagnosis to death was only 17 weeks. I want you to pray for your dad that he has a beautiful and peaceful passing when the time comes. You will not understand WHY this is happening but you have to trust in God and that he has a perfect plan. It isn't easy at all as I still cry and long for my dad after nearly two years. Be strong for him and the rest of your family. Your faith will definitely be tested but make the best of whatever time is left. Keep dad comfortable and tell him everyday how much you love him even if he seems to be asleep and not listening. Play soft or his favorite music. Reminisce on good times and your favorite childhood memories. Let dad know that he was the best dad ever! Don't leave anything unsaid. Let go of any anger. Ask God to give you strength. Everything will be okay.

Hi Bookworm

I lost my dad to prostate cancer about 3 1/2 years ago. He lived in Canada while I live in the south of England. He was in and out of hospital for ages and it wasnt until one of my Candian sisters kicked up a fuss the hospital admited it was mostly due to his prostate cancer returning after abot 30 years.

I didnt know my dad that well as he went back to Canada at the end of the war. We went out to meet him 30 odd years ago for a month and we were so alike; same likes and dislikes and got on so well together. 

So it was so hard not being there to support him and my brothers and sisters. So although my case is very differnt to yours, I do know how you feel. I also lost my mother to breast cancer just over 13 years ago. She lived close by but to see her slowly fade away was so hard.

I echo what the other two replies have stated so well.Make memories while you can because they do help in time. Sending kind thoughts your way, Brian

Thank you for all your kind words and replies.

My dad passed away Saturday evening at home . I cannot express how devastated and upset I am. I do however take comfort knowing dad is now out of pain and can rest preacefully.

Bookworm123, I'm so sorry. Please take a deep breath. Take a few deep breaths and exhale slowly. Everything will be okay. I know it's hard as I previously mentioned that I lost my dad to lung cancer, and he was your dad's age. I know it's hard to believe at this time but everything will be okay. If and when you feel like crying, screaming or just breaking down, do so. Do not isolate yourself. Surround yourself with your closest friends and family as you will need a strong support system. Please consider grief counseling that is usually provided by hospice for a year after dad's passing. As much as I didn't want to let go of my dad, I was relieved when his soul left his cancer-tainted body. Know that your dad is whole again, and dancing in the Lord's glory. He will live on through you. You will forever miss him but he will always be with you. "The Lord Giveth and Taketh Away" Job 1:21