Just need hope

[NRd19]

So my dad started is immune therapy Friday to hopefully slow down his stage 3b cancer that’s spread to 3 lymph nodes so far he seems absolutely fine atm , just tied worrying about is it doing anything cause of how he feels or is it damaging anything inside him , he says he still his getting out of breath a little but he was before and he’s always had bronchiectasis and has to self drain his chest by coughing he had started to struggle with this but since starting treatment he says it’s easier as if it’s loosened up not sure if this is right or not the fact it’s easier for him I’m hoping it’s a good thing , so for now we just wait x

[Ollie13]

Hi Nrd19

Glad to hear your dad has started his immunotherapy treatment you don't mention what one. Everyone reacts different to immunotherapy its still in its early trials and data still being collected. However I am on pembrolizumab diagnosed in Oct 2018 with lung cancer stage 3b it was in my lymph nodes in the sternum in lymph nodes and and coller bones and tumour in right lung. Started treatment in Oct and just had my 6mth PET scan results are in no cancer in coller bones no visible cancer in the in the sternum tumour has shrunk again no visible cancer in the rest of my body. A positive attitude is highly recommended. However everyone reacts differently to this therapy luckily I have had very little side effect but if you or your dad spot anything get in touch with the cancer department for advise. Do not self diagnose. The earlier the side effects if any are addressed the better. I wish your dad good luck on his new journey. xx

[NRd19 in reply to Ollie13]

Thank you , he is on the same one you have had Pembrolizumab, he does seem good to be honest, so happy for you with that outcome , my dad is very positive & still very active st 74 so we are all looking on the bright side of things but think you always worry xx

[Ollie13 in reply to NRd19]

Good luck pembrolizumab has had good reviews. Yes we always worry especially before x rays ct scans and consultants appointments. Its natural bur remaining positive is the best medicine 😀. I'm here if you need to chat or ask any questions re treatment. Best wishes to you both xx

[NRd19 in reply to Ollie13]

Thank you so much xx

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Hi,

It is good to hear that your dad has started his immunotherapy and that his cough is easier. Should he experience any side effects he can discuss these with the specialist nurses involved in his treatment. He will have been given contact detail of who to call for support.

As you can see there is a lot of support from the forum. You can call the nurse led helpline if you would like to speak to one of the nurses about any issues in between hospital visits Freephone:0800 358 7200

All the best from the team at the Roy Castle Helpline

[NRd19 in reply to RoyCastleHelpline]

Thank you 😊