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Feeling helpless and confused

Bambi2
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Hi

This is the first time I've posted on here. My dad is 65 and has been going through radiochemotherapy for stage 3c oesophageal cancer. He was doing really well and had successfully completed treatment. However, his quality of life deteriorated fast once the treatment finished and ended up with a nasal gastric feeding tube as his throat completely closed up. 

We have been given conflicting advice and have now been told he has incurable cancer in the lymph node in his stomach. He started a round of stronger chemotherapy but has been in intense pain since having the stent fitted. He's also lost a lot of weight and has no strength. 
 

My dad was admitted on New Year's Eve to a makeshift ward and we have been told that stent has perforated his gullet, has a rare blood infection because of this and needs a replacement before starting chemo again. However on the same day the Macmillan nurse has been and said he's in the final stages. 
 

I'm at a complete loss and totally confused by all the differing information we are presented with and the fact he is under two consultants who seem to have differing opinions. 
 

Has anyone else experienced this?  
 

Thanks

 

  • Hello Bambi2
    I'm sorry to hear that your Dad's condition worsened after treatment finished and that the situation has led to him needing to be admitted to hospital. It sounds like a very difficult time for you all particularly as you've been given conflicting information by the people that are responsible for his care. 

    I hope that by now you have some clarity regarding what needs to happen next for Dad but if you are still unsure then please do speak to his Mcmillan nurse or the lead nurse on the ward and explain that you are being given different information by different Dr's. You can ask to meet with the Dr's to discuss Dad's care. 

    I hope that things are resolved quickly. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Hi Bamb2

    I also have oesophagus cancer with secondary liver my cancer's was found to late for treatment, I feel for your dad and you having this evil cancer in your family.

    I have been given 6 - 12 months of life and without the support of my local hospice I don't think I would cope, the oncologist appointments are weeks and weeks apart and I feel confused and lost living alone, as I say the hospice has been a godsend, maybe they could be of help to you and your dad, they have booked me in for counceling, maybe you would find some peace from this also - you don't have to be dying for them to help.

    After reading what your dad as gone through I am beginning to think my oncologist has done the right thing by me, they are keeping me out of pain and I am managing to eat slowly with the odd vomiting but the rest of my standard on daily life is manageable by me 

    I wish I had a magic wand to help you and your dad, but all I can do is wish you well, and say my thoughts are with you.

    Kind regards

    Alan

  • Offline in reply to AlanM

    Hi Alan

    Thanks for your concern and sorry to read about your situation. Cancer is just evil.   We are in pretty much the same situation although he is home thankfully but still in immense pain. We are receiving care from the palliative team and are looking at other options. 
     

    hope you are getting the care and support you need. 
     

    best wishes

     

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