My dad's cancer has spread - Cancer: Prostate Message Board

WilsonSolution · 09-01-2005, 07:23 AM

We got the bone scan results, and his cancer has spread. He started hormone therapy and the doctor said this was really the only available option. How long can hormone therapy work? Are we looking at months, years? My dad is 67. We are close enough to go to M D Anderson if we need to. Do you think it would be good to go there and hear what they have to say? This kind of thing hits you like a ton of bricks. I don't know what to do.

Dave53 · 09-04-2005, 11:16 PM

Everyone reacts differently to this cancer and that is one reason why doctors are so hesitant to give you a prognosis. I was 49 when I was diagnosed the same as your father. It's now almost 3 years later and I am still healthy. Try to have your father prepare for his death, will, insurance, etc., but continue to make the best of the time you have left with him, whatever that happens to be. Also remember that even if you are given a prognosis, it is just a best guess.

WannaBeFreeToRoam · 09-05-2005, 10:24 PM

Hi WilsonSolution,

My FIL has prostate cancer. I do not know if his has spread? He is 90. He has a hormone rod in his arm. He had 1 for a year. Then is started to not work as good. So they took that one out and put in a 2nd one. It will probably work for 6 mo. - 9 mo. He also has bad heart trouble, so we are not too worried about his prostate cancer. The only side effect the hormones are giving him - is hot flashes sometimes!

Like Dave said, there is really no way to tell how long he will live with prostate cancer. And I am sure because it has spread some, that it may be harder to pin down! We live not too far from M.D.Anderson in Houston. It is the best cancer hospital for state around!!! If possible you might want to see if you can get him taken care of there!

Good luck and yall both take care. Wannabe

Peg29 · 09-06-2005, 08:35 AM

Your dad is a young man. You asked about going to MD Anderson. I think it would be a good idea to go and listen to what they have to say.The more information you have the better you will feel about decisions you will need to make in the future. This is your dad. Do all that you are able to do, but most of all include him and ask him what he prefers to do. Do not give up. Be his advocate if he needs and wants one. He might need this at this time. Remember, he could be just as scared as you are at this point. Come to grips with this and then go get what is the best for your dad. Hang in there. You will become stronger and stronger during all of this. My prayers are with you.

Peg

WilsonSolution · 09-06-2005, 10:33 AM

Thank you for the support and advice.