Step-Dad diagnosed with Glioblastoma Cancer

My 79 yr old Step-dad was diagnosed Dec. 5, 2017 with Brain Cancer. 2 inoperable tumors and right side of brain the cancer has infiltrated most of the lobe. He was given 3-6 Weeks. He just went through 20 radiation treatments. For the most part he seems fine. However my mom says he's talking alot about issues in his early life and at times says quite mean things to her - which is very uncharacteristic of him. He was taking a steriod twice a day, on the last day of his radiation the Dr. suggested he stop taking the steriod, within 2 days he had major headaches and pressure and was unstable, even fell down and couldn't get up. He went back on the steroid and that helps tremendously. He has now outlived the initial 6f week diagnosis by 2 weeks. We just don't know what to expect next. This is taking a toll on my healthy 87 year old Mother who is taking care of him.

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat Lincee although I'm sorry for the reason you are posting.

    Has your mom mentioned the changes in your step-dad's behaviour to his doctor? If not, it may be a good idea to make them or his medical team aware of this as it may help them to work out what stage he is at and give you a rough idea of what to expect next.

    I noticed you said that your mother is having a bit of a tough time looking after him at the moment as well. Are there are outside resources that could help look after your step-dad or support your mum at this time? Again, your step-dad's doctor or medical team would be the best people to discuss this with if this option is available to you. 

    We have a few members on the forum that either have this diagnosis or supported someone near to them that has and hopefully some of them will pop by to offer their support and advice. You can also connect with other members by looking for and joining in on previous discussions about this diagnosis already on the forum. To do this just use the 'search forum' option above.

    Our thoughts are with you at this difficult and uncertain time.

    Kind regards, 

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator