I need a little help

[monalisa]

In October 13, 2005, my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She passed away peacefully on November 28, 2005. My dad was just diagnosed with prostate cancer yesterday. He's in the stage 8 of the Gleason scale, for those who now what that is. It only goes up to 10 and is used to grade how far prostate tissue is from normal and how likely it is to spread to other areas. That's a very brief description. You can look up 'Gleason Scale' for prostate cancer if you want to know more.

So, the prognosis isn't good. My parents have always been such a big part of my life, even in my older years. Not in a controlling way, but in a very loving family oriented way. I just don't know how to fucking deal with this!

[Shadow]

I am very sorry to hear that. I am sure it is very difficult for you and your family. You are on the way to helping yourself by talking which is a good thing. Know that people are there for you always. I wish your father, yourself and your family all the best.

[crabapple]

Do talk to your closest friends and let them know that their emotional support is very important to you right now. Call upon your own faith in yourself as well. It's easy to have faith when life not demanding of you, but it is most needed when life is demanding of you, so first and foremost call upon your inner resolve. I offer my good wishes to you.

[Posher778]

*hug* Yeah, my pm box is alwayyysss open.

[monalisa]

Thanks for the support, I really do appreciate it. AND I actually have good news. My dad had a colonoscopy today and it was clear, so the cancer hasn't spread to the colon, which is a really good thing. We talk to the urologist (my brother calls him the "dick doc") :) in 2 weeks to find out the options for battling the prostate cancer. At least we have options this time! With my mom, it was like there's nothing we can do and she was gone about 6 weeks later. So we're feeling a bit encouraged at this time. Yay!

[Kane_Hodder]

Life can be tough. My own mother is suffering from a number of ailments and the doctors havent been able to pinpoint the exact cause. She is on medication now and fighting it. You have got to be brave, monalisa, and try to be a solid support for your father and the rest of your family. My best wishes go to you and them both.