Dear Daughter.........Boy, when it rains, it pours! So sorry to hear about your Dad's gum cancer and especially so soon after recovering from the lung cancer. I am not sure if it really matters whether this is a new cancer or just the spread of the lung cancer since the cancer will have to be treated one way or another anyway. I would be interested in knowing if it is a new cancer though.

At this point I have no idea how they will treat the cancer but I would continue "beefing" him up with Ensure until they decide the best treatment protocal for him. SInce he is still recovering from the lung cancer I'm sure he will need all the additonal weight and nutrients you can get into him for a quicker recovery.

Being the sole caretaker for someone as sick as your father is quite difficult. Your emotions are pulled in so many different directions and then there is the physical care that you must give him to help in his recovery. You and your husband have a very tough job right now. However, I'm sure your father appreciates all you have done for him. Have you contacted your local chapter of The American Cancer Society? They offer a host of services free of charge that might be benifical to your father and ease your burden just a bit---grocery shopping and house cleaning are just two of the many services they offer in this area of the country. There are also support groups for caretakers that you may find helpful.

Keep us posted on how things are going, and fire away with any questions you may have. I"m sure you'll find someone here who "has been there, done that" and will be able to help you with your fathers cancer journey. Sending good thoughts your way! Sincerely, Donna