Dad diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer

Hi All

In December 2020 my dad was diagnosed with bowel cancer, which hadn't spread to other organs. He had surgery scheduled but due to covid this got cancelled and he had to wait a month. The surgery was successful but as he felt sick afterwards they did a CT scan to check for any leaks. They confirmed no leaks and he went home after a couple of days. Last week he was shocked to find out that the CT scan shows it is now in his liver and is unlikely to be operable. He has been told he will have an MRI to confirm then will start palliative chemo. 
 

what I don't understand is why it's palliative because you hear of people who have their tumours shrunk so they then become operable. Is there any hope for him at all?

  • Hello Katg3010

    I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's diagnosis and the recent news he was given that there has been some spread to his liver. 

    You're right that we do have some members here on the forum who have been able to have operations after tumours have spread or shrunk. It's important to remember though that it's not always the size but sometimes the position of a tumour that might mean surgery isn't an option. Hopefully, the MRI that your Dad is due to have will give some clarity on what the next appropriate steps will be for him. 

    If you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses you're welcome to give them a call on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm. 

    Do keep in touch and let us know how he gets on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator