Hi, not sure how to introduce myself. My dad has stage 4 pancreatic cancer. It’s not treatable and we are palliative. My dad has become very breathless and I don’t know what to do? Xxx
Hello SimoneM. Welcome to the forum and I am sorry to learn of your dad's breathing difficulties. Can you contact his care team? Or your GP? Ask them to visit and give you some help - you should not have to be left frightened and wondering what to do. This is a difficult enough time as it is without this. As well as posting here, at any time you are in this situation you can ring the nurses here (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Freefone 0808 800 4040 - the number at the bottom of this screen) and they will advise you. Also if you need support you can ring MacMillan Cancer Support (Freefone 0808 808 0000 Mon-Friday 9am-8pm). Do take advantage of all the help you can get. Best wishes. Annie
A very warm welcome to Cancer Chat, although I’m sorry for the reason that you have found us here.
You’ve done fine in introducing yourself. This is exactly the sort of thing that this forum is for. Can I ask what age you are and how long ago your dad was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer? Do you have other siblings and family members, who can support you at this difficult time? Are you trying to care for your dad at home? So many questions, I know, but the answers will help us to point you in the right direction to give your dad as much help and support as you can.
Cancer is a horrible disease. It doesn’t just affect the patient but also his family. It is a common complaint from family members that they feel frustrated by how little they can do to help their loved ones at this stage. Just by being there with him and letting him know how much you love him you are doing more than any of the doctors and nurses can do at this stage. I have lost both of my parents, several other family members and close friends to cancer and I have had 2 bouts of breast cancer myself. It is particularly upsetting to be with a loved one at the final stage, so you will need to be strong. Has your dad been given anything to help his breathing. Do you have nurses coming into the house? They should be able to help with this.
Please keep in touch and let us know how you are getting on. We are always here for you whenever you want to talk.
