Some of the questions that come to mind are:
1. Where is the cancer, besides his intestines?
2. If it has spread to the lymph nodes, how many do they suspect?
3. What stage is his cancer?
4. What is his prognosis?
5. What reliable websites can I use to learn more about my father’s condition and standard protocol for his treatment?
6. What treatment is the oncologist recommending for my father?
7. What support will my father need when he is taking chemo, apart from what he already has in place, and should I come home?
Taking chemo in the hospital is not what it used to be. The atmosphere is quite relaxed and comfortable, and the nurses are specially trained to answer all your concerns. Things like the drugs for nausea, etc. are quite effective.
While the side effects during treatment can be significant, there are many avenues of support, set up to help those going through it. The support of family and friends is important, whether it’s attending meeting with him and his doctor, making sure his basic needs are attended to, maintaining contact, etc.
I would suggest you go up to the Tom Baker and get a booklet entitled, “Chemotherapy and Other Drug Therapies – a guide for people with cancer. It will give you a list of questions to ask about your father’s drug treatment, along with an explanation of the many side effects he may encounter. I would guess your father will be given a copy of this publication.
If you want to send me a PM, I would try to offer more help.
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