Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) Joined: Nov 2006 Posts: 2,671 | It is so very hard to see someone you love going through such indescribable pain. My son reached a point about half way through treatment when he decided to quit and absolutely refused to go to his Rad Tx. I was so worried, but the same day he had a doctor appointment and so I said ok, but let's just got for his appointment and see what the doctor says. When the doctor saw how raw and bleeding his mouth was, he gave him a one day break. I think it was a Thursday and so he had the weekend also to recover. He was much better on Monday and resumed his treatment.
Your grandfather is probably overwhelmed about so many more treatments to come and all the pain associated with it. Maybe if he could just think about the next one to come, taking one treatment at a time and consider the pain management advice above, it might be easier for him to continue. I noticed towards the end of my son's treatments, he was much more eager to get to finish Tx. The very last treatment, I could see him suffer so much, I was the one who couldn't stand it anymore and suggested he stay home but he was adamant in making it to that last treatment. It is your Granddad's decision of course but he should be helped to consider all the factors involved and know that whatever HE decides, that he is making an informed decision about his health and recovery. I really hope everything gets easier for him. You and your family are providing such wonderful support for him.
Anne-Marie CG to son, Paul (age 33, non-smoker) SCC Stage 2, Surgery 9/21/06, 1/6 tongue Rt.side removed, +48 lymph nodes neck. IMRTx28 completed 12/19/06. CT scan 7/8/10 Cancer-free! ("spot" on lung from scar tissue related to Pneumonia.)
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