Originally Posted by: Online Community MemberA gp has visited dad a couple of times now and told us that he feels dad is frail and declining rapidly. He has spoken about a 'just in case' box and broached the DNR question with us. Dad has definitely declined and the stilbestrol has not had the effect we so hoped for. He is losing a lot more weight as his appetite is so small. He is still independently mobile, managing small meals and up and dressed each day although only really up to watch some tele and read his paper. But still very much 'with it'. His last scans 4 weeks ago showed little change since the previous lot and neither the consultant nor cancer nurse specialist indicated at that time that things were as dire as the gp has now very explicitly made clear he thinks they are. Have felt terrible since these conversations. I mean I don't have my head in the sand and know that there will be no miracle but I feel like some hope is essential to deal with this and that has very been much extinguished for now. Any thoughts?
Hi,
"thoughts" you asked about?
your dad may or may not know, and understand the reality of his situation/prognosis?
I see that there is "hope" that you are looking for, in that Dad may be managed to be pain free for the rest of his time, however long that may be.
This aim may not be in line with your hopes and aspirations, but may be more realistic for your Dad.
This is a situation we may all have to face at some point, sadly.
atb
dave