Hi there John, I'm sorry that your latest news about your prostate cancer isn't very positive. What people often overlook when someone receives a diagnosis of cancer, is that the entire family is affected. This news is even more difficult to hear when one has dependent kids to think about as it is in your case. It seems like your consultant as been open and honest with you about your prognosis and I'm sure this is something you need to digest yourself before discussing it with your kids. What we often overlook with kids is that they are like little sponges; they pick up on things without us even suspecting that they are paying any attention to what's going on around them. They're very intuitive at picking up vibes too, whether or not they hear anything being said. It would probably be a good idea for you and your wife to talk about the best way to handle this since the two of you know your kids better than anyone else. They will find out about it, one way or another, so it would be better for them to hear it from their parents. Its' also important to give them an opportunity to ask questions and to receive honest answers. It might be a good idea to put emphasis on the treatment you will be taking if they can come up with something suitable for you and reassure them that you are trying to stay well for as long as possible. As difficult as this news will be for them to hear, kids have a great deal of resilience that we, as parents, are not always aware of.

I think there may be a section on this site that deals with children in talking about cancer. Perhaps you can tap into some of that information.

Come back on the forum to let us know how you are managing and to get support for yourself and your wife as you go through this difficult journey. People on this forum are all dealing with cancer in one way or another and everyone on here is very supportive to each other. Don't go through this alone.

Take care and sending virtual hugs your way.

Lorraine