Advice about my Dad

[Yellowgarden]

Hello, I'm new to the group but would really appreciate some advice on how to help my Dad and Mom please. My Dad is 74 yrs old and last year became very breathless, had difficulty walking uphill or distance and tired. He has had a number of tests and seen different Consultants and although Copd has been mentioned there has also been talk of asbestosis but results so far are not clear therefore he has been put forward for a lung biopsy (vats I think). He saw the surgery consultant yrday and timeframe is 3/4 wks. I'm scared but trying to be positive he had a triple bypass 13yrs ago and was so ill after we nearly lost him. At the moment he is frail, recovering from a virus and he told me last eve he was scared and could die from this. We knw going forward it will be a managed condition and will get worse. All advice on what to expect in relation to the biopsy and anything I can do to help support them both would be greatly appreciated. Sorry if I have rambled on and thanks for taking the time. X

[Soul01]

Yellowgarden, I can’t be of much help but have had VATS. It is a common procedure and quick and usually straightforward from what I understand.

I assume they want a sample for testing. Once you have the results, you will know what you’re dealing with.

VATS is ‘a walk in the park’ compared with a triple bypass.

[Yellowgarden in reply to Soul01]

Thank you yes I'm sure once we knw what we are dealing with I hope it will be easier he can't go on the way he is. He has been told that the biggest concern is if he picks up an infection, can I ask were you given antibiotics prior and after the procedure and how long you were in hospital for? Also do you have any advice for recovery? Thank you again x

[mikeadams51]

The only advice I can give you at the moment is look on the bright side. I know that is easier said than done but I have been living with lung disease for more than ten years so there is hope. Waiting is the hardest part but try to keep him and yourself calm. Tension makes breathing worse, believe you me. Here’s hoping for a good result and wish you all well

[Yellowgarden in reply to mikeadams51]

Thank you yes sometimes it's easier when you know what you are dealing with. He can't go on as he is everything seems to be a struggle and he is wheezy all the time not helped as he is recovering from a virus. He is just v scared of what the future holds. So all advice is appreciated especially when we have a result. Thank you for taking the time to reply and the 10yrs has been a positive to tell him. Take care of yourself too x

[mikeadams51 in reply to Yellowgarden]

Will do and glad you appreciated y words

[stamford1234]

You have a lot on your plate there. Your Dad is lucky to have your support and care. Don't forget to look after yourself

[Yellowgarden in reply to stamford1234]

Thank you I will try, it is hard as three years ago my husband at 51 was diagnosed with prostate cancer and it feels that overwhelming sense of unknown and what the future holds. On a positive note though my husband's treatment went well and so far so good. Just trying to keep positive for Dad & Mom and having my moments alone. Take care x

[stamford1234]

It looks like good news for your husband. I had it all fall in on me about 12 months or so ago, Husband, Brother, Mother. Sometimes you wonder where all that strength is going to come from x