Welcome to the Cancer Chat forum Cheets although I'm really sorry to read about the news your dad was given after he had a scare with this vision and balance.

Were the doctors able to give your parents a rough guideline to how much time the radiation would give? This may help you figure out when to go and see your mum and dad in Ireland, if you can. Are you able to stay in touch using video calling? Again, this may help to make the distance between you slightly more bearable and give you that valuable time together.

I'm sure some of our members who have found themselves in similar situations will be along soon to offer their support and advice.

Best wishes to you all at this difficult time, 

Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

Hello Cheets,

You are not alone in that hopeless feeling - though that is definitely not a comfort at this time I am sure. I can only offer advice from my own experience but please discuss this with someone such as a friend or family member who may have better idea about the bigger picture of your life. There is always someone desperate to help you in these times.
My dad passed a few year ago, one year to the day after his lung cancer diagnosis. He too had had a bad stroke previously - or rather several and later in his battle had metasteses on his brain. I was living several hours away from my parents at the time and found it hard to travel. I decided to put life on hold as his condition started to deteriorate and go home. At the time it seemed like an impossible decision but I am so glad I did as that time is now very precious to me. 
If you have anyone to ask for help with the kids please ask them - all your loved ones will want to support you at this time and helping to support your children so that you can go and see your parents for at least a few days will feel like the very least they can do. Radiation often has the side effect of tiredness so you may also want to factor this into deciding which days you visit as he could be sleeping quite a lot.
I hope you find some peace and get to spend some quality time with dad, even if it can only be over the phone. Thinking of you.

Thank you for your replies. Dad has now completed radiation to his brain  and chest and seemed to be coping ok.  In the last week however he has been unwell with a temperature and bad chest and has barely eaten in 7 days. He is constantly sleeping according to my Mum , could this just be the reaction to the radiation or is this something more. I am terrified of not being with him when I should be and just don't know what to do.