A Better Understanding

amakis · Regular Joined: 01 Mar 2006 Posts: 39

Yesterday, I went with my dad to his oncology appointment. The doctor said that my dad was doing much better than he had expected- which is good news right? The doctor explained that the tumor was wrapped around the blood vessels- so why I wonder is this called Lung Cancer? We then went across the hall for my dad to recieve his daily radiation treatment- #17 so far. We were able to speak with the radiogist (a very kind man) who informed us that he hadn't seen the results he would of liked by now. The tumor hasn't gotten any bigger, but then again it hasn't shrunk. With those words I just felt a feeling of hopelessness, and I wish so much that my dad didn't have to hear the doctors words. I am now starting to think that my dad isn't going to beat this disease. Is there any hope out there? He is scheduled for two more weeks of radiation, and then that's it. Maybe two more weeks will present some positive results. I am having a very difficult time accepting that he is going to die

adr22367 · Experienced user Joined: 17 May 2005 Posts: 78

Be happy the tumors didn't grow. My Dad had 4 tumors and 3 stayed at bay with chemo. The largest one had minimal growth after each round of chemo. In July 04 the doctors said if the tumors would continue to grow he'd have approximately 8-9 months. With the 3 staying at bay and the largest only having minimal growth he lasted 20 1/2 months. It's extremely hard accepting someone we love is going to die, but by knowing there was no cure and knowing my Dad is at peace breathing fine now makes it a bit easier. He had a wonderful 19 months, went to Hawaii, Vegas and California, and to Atlantic City 3 times a month. It was only the last 2 weeks that he wasn't feeling his best and on oxygen 24/7. Prayers for you and your Dad.

amakis · Regular Joined: 01 Mar 2006 Posts: 39

Thank you so much- the information you have given me has given me a bit of peace. After I typed my post, I did a bit more research on the location of his tumor. Apparantly it is around the pulmonary artery. Doctors say that he may die of an embulism (sp?). I'm wondering if this is quick and virtually painless, or whether he'll know the end is near. I guess I don't want him to suffer or be in any pain. I suppose that's a lame comment, who does want their loved one to be in pain? It is comforting to know that there are those, just like you, who have gone through something similar and are able to offer kind words.

adr22367 · Experienced user Joined: 17 May 2005 Posts: 78

It's always nice to speak to someone who has gone through it. Thankfully my Dad was never in a lot of pain. The last 2 weeks he was more uncomfortable than anything (not being able to catch a breath). He'd take a 1/2 percoset and feel fine along with a xanax. We didn't do an autopsy, but I honestly believe it wasn't the cancer that caused his death, but the emphysema.

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