My Dads Pancreatic Cancer Journey

On the 22nd of September 2024 my family fell apart to the devastating news of my dad’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis spreading to his liver at the age of 76. We are just over 5 weeks past diagnosis and so far my dads had a stent fitted on the 27th of September that went well with no infections, this has managed to make life more manageable with less discomfort and has cleared the jaundice, on the 2nd of October my dad went back into hospital for a liver biopsy, we are currently waiting to see an oncologist on the 31st of October to discuss what they can offer him treatment wise and I’m worrying so much!!! We know there isn’t an option for surgery and all we have his hope that we get as much time as possible with him with the best quality of life, my dad still has a really good appetite at the moment “which we are thankful for” and is eating a nutritional diet with added supplements also prescribed Creon. 
Our worry is that chemo will upset all this as he is doing so well apart from feeling more tiered than usual and more out of breath when walking, I guess I’ve reached out to this forum in hope that it will give me some comfort in knowing someone going through something similar may have some useful advice. My dad is my absolute world and biggest hero, he has took this better than I have, I am being as strong as I can be for him to keep him going and being positive as we keep saying we are living for today.

  • Welcome to our forum, GALEMONS
    I’m sorry to hear about your dad.
    It’s clear that you and your family have been through an incredibly difficult time these past few weeks, and your dad’s resilience, alongside the love and support you're giving him, shines through in everything you've shared. It’s encouraging to hear that the stent procedure went smoothly, and that he’s been able to enjoy his meals and keep his strength up.
    Facing the upcoming oncologist appointment, especially with all the unknowns, is understandably worrying, but the positive focus you and your family have on making the most of each day speaks volumes about your strength together.
    I hope you find comfort here among members who understand just how challenging these times can be.
    Also, if you feel like asking some questions to our team of nurses before your dad’s next appointment, they'd be happy to talk things over with you Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m on this freephone 0808 800 4040.
    Wishing you and your family all the best,
    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator
  • Thank you Renata for your kind words and support.

    Following my dad’s appointment his blood results came back ok and he had not lost any weight due to this the oncologist offered palliative chemotherapy of FOLFIRINOX on the 22nd of November, I will update again after his first cycle about this. 
    For now he is eating healthy plenty of everything including added supplements including dandelion root, chokeberry, ginseng, iron and vitamin D I’ve also been making a home made drink for him to have including fresh ginger, garlic, turmeric and lemon juice to give him a boost.

    The tiredness is definitely there so I am hoping all these natural remedies will make a difference.