When bowel cancer spreads to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs, it can be more difficult to treat and get rid of the cancer; therefore, chemotherapy is often used to help control the cancer, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life, rather than being able to get rid of the cancer completely. I can appreciate that this is difficult to read.
In some situations, if the cancer has only spread to one area and responds well to treatment, surgery or other therapies might be considered. But everyone is different, and their outcome depends on several things, such as where the cancer has spread, how well the person is overall, and how the cancer responds to treatment.
Without us being involved in your friend's care, we cannot say what their outcome might be or what the aim of the treatment is. This is difficult because there is a lot of uncertainty.
Please get back to us if you need to. You may find it more helpful to speak with one of our nurses on the helpline. We are available between 9-5 Monday to Friday, freephone 0808 800 4040.
Thank you Jemma I am realistic in the fact that she won't be cured only symptoms treated. It has spread elsewhere too and she is starting more chemo next week for the peritoneum Am wondering how long we have her for xxx and what we can realistically do for her xx
As my colleague Jemma has mentioned, we can't say what your friend's outcome/prognosis will be. Prognosis is really a question best answered by her specialist. This is because they are familiar with all her medical details and will know so much more about her individual situation.
Doctors base their assessment of someone's outlook/prognosis on their experience of looking after other patients with the same cancer. But it's important to bear in mind they cannot give exact timelines as cancer behaves differently in every person.
People often ask what more can they do to support someone during this time . But talking and listening and being there when you can are what most people find useful. Sometimes it can be better to ask your friend what she would find most helpful for you to do for her. For example, she may really appreciate you getting shopping in, preparing meals, taking her to her hospital appointments, or keeping her company when you can. It's also important to bear in mind that we can only do what we are allowed to do.
On our website, we have information about supporting someone with cancer both emotionally and practically The charity Macmillan Cancer Support have some further information on their website.
I hope this has been of some help. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
