Welcome to the Cancer Chat community Gus although I'm sorry for the reason you're joining us. It sounds like you and your family are going through a really tough time at the moment.

Unfortunately no-one here can say why your father hasn't been offered chemo/radiotherapy but his medical team can so if you're able to get your father's permission you may be able to discuss this with them.

I noticed you mentioned [@davek]‍. He is very helpful and supportive and now I've tagged him in this post I'm sure he'll stop by when he can to offer his thoughts and advice.

You're also welcome to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses. They're available Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m on 0808 800 4040 so do give them a call if you feel this will help.

Fingers crossed you're able to get the authorisation you need to fly out to see your father.

Kind regards,

Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

Hi Gus,

I'm so sorry to read about your Dad's situation.

Having been in a similar position, I can understand why surgery and radio-therapy has been ruled out it is just too dangerous and the risk far outweighs the benefits. Surgery's risks are obvious, one slip and the aorta will rupture. From what I remember, there's a risk that radiation can similarly weaken the walls of the aorta risking erosion and rupture.

It would be hard to second guess why chemo has been ruled out though. Perhaps your Dad has an underlying condition that would make chemo risky. Is it possible that he has ruled out chemo himself against medical advice?  An awkward question, but it sometimes happens, especially when people  have seen friends or relatives undergoing chemo without benefit in the past. 

It would be worth askng your Dad, or getting his permission to talk to his consultant. 

I'm afraid I have no experience of cannabis based therapies. From what I have read it is OK for reducing the nausea caused by chemo but that's about all. Some people have made millions from selling tjis stuff, but I've yet to see peer-reviewed studies which show that it has more than a placebo effect and I've been looking for years.

Best wishes

Dave