Small Cell Lung Cancer which has now spread to the liver

Hello, this is the first time I am posting on any forums and I am just looking for some advice really. My Mum was diagnosed with SCLC a little over 3 years ago, she's had ongoing treatment but we knew that the 5 year life expectancy for small cell wasn't great. Anyway, initially it spread to the lymph nodes in her neck, to which she had radiotherapy, then they stopped IV chemo and put her on the tablets. She had her latest scan on Sunday and we had the results on Wednesday. The doctor we saw (it wasn't even her usual oncologist) told us that the cancer has now spread to her liver and unfortunately there wasn't anything else they could do for her. We are looking at a matter of months and the doctor said that she would be discharged from Oncology as they aren't treating her anymore. We are now in limbo land, as we haven't been advised of next steps, are we to wait for someone to contact us to discuss palliative care options or should we be actively contacting someone. If so, who are we meant to be speaking to? My Mum wants to stay at home, she has been in contact with a doctor at LOROS for a long time now, as she is allergic to Opioids, they need to figure out what they are going to give her. I guess I'm just looking for information on what we need to do next, I'm not sure how long exactly she has left so I'm wanting to get all as much sorted as I can so that it takes the stress off Mum. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear about your mum's situation and appreciate what a difficult time this must be for you both.

    It is understandable you wanting to get things sorted out and in place and hopefully your mum will hear from the palliative care team soon. A referral is usually made once someone has been discharged from oncology and palliative care take over the care of the patient in the community.

    If you haven't heard anything in the next few days I would either try and speak to the specialist nurse your mum may have a contact number for or her GP. 

    There is often both a hospital and community palliative care team (some cover both) however often the community palliative care team are based or are run in close collaboration with the local hospice. You mention your mum already being known to LOROS so they may also be worth talking to in getting your mums needs assessed and a plan activated. Then any other referrals to other health care professionals and services can be arranged to meet your mum's needs and requests.

    As hard as it may be to read we do have section with lots of information here about dying with cancer on our website including a section about dealing with this news, practical advice, carers and patients support and services at this time.

    I hope this helps but do get back with more questions or alternatively give us a ring on 0808 800 4040 monday-friday 9-5.

    Best wishes

    Naomi