Dad's cancer is back.

It now looks like he has a tennis ball growing on the side of his neck. Much different in size from where it was three weeks ago. Today we met with the surgeon and here is what we have been told.

It is inoperable at this time. We have an appointment with the RO on Thursday at 9:00 AM to discuss possible radiation combined with chemo. IF the radiation can shrink the tumor then they MAY be able to operate, but chances are the whole tumor will not be able to be removed due to the location. (Who knows if he could even survive another surgery) We aren't even sure yet if radiation is a viable option. If the cancer spreads it will more than likely spread down rather than up. The good news is that his lungs are clear as of today.

I'm going with Dad to his appointment on Thursday. I'm looking for help with composing questions that I should ask the RO with regards to his treatment options. If anyone could help me out and give me some suggestions for questions I would greatly appreciate it. I'm feeling a little brain dead at this point.

This just sucks.

Dear Joy, so sorry to hear this bad news.
I guess my main question would be exploring his "quality of life" issues based on each of the proposed treatment plans, so that everyone knows what the options [not just treatment, but after tx] are. Best wishes to you, Amy in the Ozarks

Dear Joy: Just wanted to say that we're thinking of you and your family during this time. Keep us informed.

Lois & Buzz in NC

I am so sorry to hear of your bad news. I know how much of an emotional roller coaster ride the reoccurrences cause.

I agree that the quality of live is the most important thing to think about. Make sure that your Dad's wishes are followed. Find out what the chances are of beating this before they put him threw too much more tx. Radiation might be very difficult on him with him already having a heart problem.

I wish the best for your Dad and your family.

Praying for you!
Debbie

Thank y'all for your quick responses. Quality of life is a big issue here for us. I know if they say 6 months with no treatment, one year with, that he will forego treatment and make the most of what time he has left.

Dad just finished radiation this past August. He did very well - mild side effects of what I'd read about out here. I'm afraid that if they are able to radiate again that it will be brutal. He wanted no parts of the feeding tube before. I'm afraid this time it may not be an option. He's not going to like that.

PLease know that my thoughts are with you and your dad tonight !


Shar

Thanks everyone for your thoughts and prayers. It is what got us through the first round of battling the beast.

I don't know if I have ever told everyone out here, but my Dad is a preacher and he loves it when I tell him that people are praying for him. He knows that I come here daily and that I draw support and encouragement from each of you.

Thank you again for your thoughts, prayers and support during this journey.

Much love and hugs,

Joy

We met with the RO yesterday. I came out here last night to post, but before I could post anything my IE locked up and I lost it all. I was too exhausted to try again.

Dad will have 35 treatments of IMRT. (Last round of radiation was 3D) They are not sure if it will be two treatments a day for the first three weeks or if it will only be one time a day for 7 weeks. He gets fitted for his new mask on Monday and treatments should start soon afterwards.

They are setting up an appointment with the MO. The RO seemed to think that he will have chemo once a week while having radiation.

The pain is increasing. They have prescribed a Fentanyl patch along with percocet for break through pain.

Here we go again, only this time it's going to be a tougher battle.

Joy

Hi Joy,

I'm so sorry you're going through this. I wish I could wave a magic fairy wand, but I can't. You have friends here and we're all here for you.
Hugs to you and your dad.

Hi Joy,
I'm really sorry to hear about your father. But, it's an encouraging sign that they have more radiation they can give him, more treatments. It'll be tough but he and you can do it.

I live in Va. Beach, mind me asking what hospital you go to and what doctor?

Take care,
Minnie