Cancer Research UK main site

Hello from the daughter of a prostate cancer patient

DAJ
Offline

Hello,

I've already posted a couple of messages here and chatted to the lovely Brian, but I think I must introduce myself before I post any more.

I'm Denise, the daughter of an (almost) 80-year olf prostate cancer patient. My Dad's had all the usual tests and has been referred to an oncologist -- though I only discovered this by googling the consultant's name; the letter says very little beyond asking my Dad to go to the outpaitients/day care centre to see Mr "Soandso". Well, Mr "Soandso" is a consultant oncologist. We've yet to get a formal diagnosis but I expect that'll come at the appointment with the oncologist on Wednesday. Fortuately, his bone scan was clear.

Needless to say, I'm worried. I don't live near my Dad and the folks at home aren't asking many questions of the doctors.

best wishes to all,

Denise

  • Offline

    Hi Denise,

    When I went to see my oncolgist, I must admit , I didnt ask that many questions and some that I wanted to ask I forgot once we got talking. My wife wasnt able to come with me so I did all my appiontments on my own. A lot of people on here advise writting down any quetions beforehand so unlike me thet dont get forgotten. Its also handy to take pen and paper with you for its so easy to forget things for your minds all in a whirl at the time. I do hope you get good news today but remember, Treatments are very good these days as I can testify to.

    Wishing you a peaceful Christmas, and sending kind thoughts your way, Brian.

  • Offline in reply to woodworm

     

    Hello Brian,

    Today we start the journey with hormone treatement, with radiation therapy to follow. My Dad's frightened, which is understandable. He's comng to us for Christmas and I hope he'll be able to relax a little. We'll look after him.

    I do hope you and all dear to you have a merry Christmas.

    My best wishes,

    Denise

  • Offline in reply to DAJ

    Hi Denise,

    Please tell your dad there ia absolutely nothing to worry about regarding treatment. He will probably be on the hormone theraoy for a few months before starting the radiotherapy. This is to the shrink the cancer and should also reduce his psa. It involves an injection of a hormone pellet just under the sking, normally into the  area about midway between the belly button and a mans water works if you take my meaning. It can be a little painful but doesnt take long. One of the side effects of hormone therapy is your dad will almost certainly start having hot flushes. I ended up have a competition with my wife at at one stage I was way in front for for the number and severity. There is something the doctors can prescribe if it become a nusance but I didnt bother. Hormone therapy can also produce mood swings in men but it only effects a few. I'm telling you this not to worry you but to prepare you if it should happen as it sounds like your dad doesnt have much info given him. I was given lots but I do know not eveyone bothers to read the booklets.

    I wish you and your family a very happy Christmas, Brian.

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.