Terminal lung cancer, nothing more doctors can do!

Dad was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in Feb 2018 and given 3 months to live. He had chemo & radiotherapy and responded really well. However, in April this year, we were advised that there’s nothing more that can be done and to prepare ourselves for the next stage. What that stage entails was not made clear? Dad is at home and we are caring for him. He’s coughing up stuff constantly (not fun for him), not sleeping very well and has lost his appetite as he can’t swallow. He’s lost his voice too and has a growth on his neck. I’m desperately worried and have no idea what to expect next. Has anyone else experienced this? 

  • Hello Piris23, 

    Welcome to the forum and I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's condition. 

    You mention that he's home with you and you are caring for him. Have you been given any contacts with your local hospice service or palliative care team? Getting some support from them now will help Dad, and you as his family, through the coming weeks. 

    If you haven't been given any contact details then give Dad's GP surgery a call first thing tomorrow morning and ask to speak to someone about a referral to the appropriate team. They'll be able to help try and make sure Dad can remain comfortable at home if that's what you all wish, as well as supporting you with information and putting in additional support or equipment if needed. 

    If you think it would help to chat to our team of nurses you can call them on 0808 800 4040. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    Sending you our best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

  • Hi Jenn,

    Thanks for replying. I rang the doctors and they have referred dad to MacMillan. I’m now waiting for the nurses to get in touch. Hopefully they’ll be able to make dad more comfortable.

    Best regards,

    Iris

  • Dad died on Monday. It seems the cancer was more advanced than the nurses realised. It was heartbreaking and very traumatic. We can only pray that he’s now with mum, who died in January this year. We are lost without them