Hi Alex, 

I'm really sorry to hear about that your father has been diagnosed with terminal colorectal cancer. It is true there are a few survivors out there who have defied the odds and I have found someone on the forum who did just that. PaulF was also diagnosed with colorectal cancer and you can read more about his story here. He hasn't been on the forum lately but do feel free to get in touch as I'm sure he would love to share his story and give you any support or advice you may need.

Do come back and let us know how your dad gets on.

Wishing you and your family all the best, 

Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

Thanks for that Steph. If you know of any others could you please let me know? I'm still learning how to navigate this site. 

Hi alexmc, 

I just wanted to say that I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. I'm not in the same situation as you, but my dad was recently diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer. My dad is only 63, so this was a huge shock to us. I just wanted you to know that you aren't alone in all of this. I have also heard of some people beating Stage 4 cancer, and some people living much longer than was expected by doctors. It's so hard to say since everybody is so different. Different people respond to different treatments, and some people respond well and others respond not so well. 

What has helped me the most is I try not to think about the future so much. Try to live in the moment and cherish the moments you are able to have with your dad. This kind of thinking helps me a little bit, as I tend to get more depressed if I think too far into the future. I hope this has helped a little bit. 

Hi,

Have the doctors actually used the word terminal? I ask because sometimes patients hear stage 4 and assume this is the same as terminal, but there is a subtle difference.

A small but significant number of us do live far longer than we were told to expect when we were first diagnosed. I read a study recently that said that prognoses are more often wrong than right - in both directions - as there are so many factors affecting outcomes.

Good luck

Dave

Hi [@davek]‍ 

Yes definitely terminal sadly. I am remaining positive though. I'm not going to let him go without a fight. 

That's a shame, so sorry to hear that. 

I do have a friend who was told she was terminal 2 or 3 years ago. She has fought it every step of the way, arguing for operations and procedures which her doctors said had little hope of success, as she wanted to see her daughter get married last year. They worked against all odds and extended her life.She managed that and is still fighting on now. 

Her case is unusual but there are exceptions to every rule - which is what keeps many of us going. Better to have only a small hope than none at all.

Best wishes

Dave

hi davek,   cococat  here,      appologies for how im getting in touch,    i have read your    about me story page by clicking on your boat icon,   you are an inspiration,  i have also crossed paths with some of your messages to others, you are very level headed and give great help.. thanks .  cococat