Throat cancer

Hello all,

I've just recently within the past few hours found out my dad has been diagnosed with throat cancer and will be having surgery to remove lymph nodes and try and get rid of it this week. He is a man who keeps things to himself so we only just found out but they have known for months.

I am terrified especially with not having all the information right now but I will be speaking to his doctor tomorrow to figure more out. Do the lymph nodes coming out suggest that it is terminal? I've been reading a lot about throat cancer and probably upsetting myself even more. I struggle with depression and have been suicidal this month to then find this out, I'm not coping very well and desperate for any tips to try and calm myself while I wait for more information.

Thanks and sorry for rambling

  • Hi LimeGreen,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. I've just read your post and thought I would send you a reply. I'm very sorry to read about your dad, I can only imagine how hard this has been to find out.

    You mention you don't have all the information right now - for that reason please try if you can to not assume the worst, as this will only cause more stress or worry. Try to wait until you can find out more from the doctor.

    Make a note of any questions you have so that you can ask the doctor when you see them - and make a note of anything they say so you don't forget.

    It's also good to avoid reading about it online too much, as the information isn't specific to anyone and a lot of it can be irrelevant or out of date.

    I hope you have someone around you that you can speak to. Please use this forum too as much as you'd like to write down any worries or concerns - it's a very understanding community of people.

    If you continue to feel suicidal please call Samaritans on 116 123 or visit their website.

    In terms of your depression, I'm not sure if you're already seeking support for this but there is of course support available - it would be good to speak to your doctor about this if you're looking for further options. The NHS Moodzone is a useful resource.

    Let us know how you get on.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator