Hi Frankie,

My heart goes out to you. We had a similar experience with my father-in-law last February. He had complained of back pain and we had him to see his GP several times over about 6 months. All his GP kept telling us was that he was anaemic. Eventually, he was admitted to day hospital for assessment. He was admitted as an inpatient immediately and, by that afternoon we were told that he had advanced cancer throughout his body. We were told that there was no treatment option available to him and that he only had a short time left. The oncologist offered to tell him his prognosis, but he didn't want to know. However, I did and, she told me that it could be within the next two weeks. The outcome was that he died within 5 days of diagnosis.

What ages are your children? You might find it helpful to ask your husband's care team for advice on how to break the news to them. Macmillan can also give you advice on how to brooch this subject.

I can understand your fear about knowing this, but it does make it easier to cope with all that happens after. It is also helpful to know a little about the end stages of life, so that you know when they are approaching. This is something that you can find on the internet.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to say what you are facing, as each case is individual. Your husband's consultant should be in the best position to tell you what is likely to happen. Is your husand still at home or has he been admitted to hospital?

You have a hard road ahead of you, but you will get through it. Do you have a family member or friend who you can confide in? It makes all the difference to have someone you can talk to openly about how you feel.

Do please keep in touch and let us know how you are all getting on. We are always here for you.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx