Lung cancer diagnosis, what 2 expect?

Hello

My mum has recently had a ct scan and the doctors/hospital confirmed its either secondary breast cancer that's has spread to her lung(s) or is lung cancer. They offered a biopsy to determine which cancer it is, so they could offer the correct treatment. She has had breast cancer 3 times already in the last 20 years and beat it with chemo and radiotherapy but said no to treatment this time.

My 77 year old mum has declined the biopsy and decline treatment. She also doesn't want to know how large one of the lumps in her left lung is and doesn't want to know how long she has left to live without any treatment. Doc have said its not curable.

I am at a loss of what to expect over the coming months, what the end will be like, what I can do for her or where I can go for help. At the moment she's eating so little food every day, doesn't leave the house and has the fortisip juice drinks for extra calories but she has no energy and continues to lose weight. She's withdrawn from friends and doesn't want them to come over the house to see her.

It doesn't feel real to look at her she doesn't look ill and it doesn't feel real that she may go down hill so fast. I dont know what to expect over the coming months and it scares me. Any advice would be appreciated 

  • Hi

     

    I am ever so sorry to hear about your mum. I had to reply as I am in a similar situation- my mum was told she has disseminated malignancy of the lungs, lymph liver and adrenals. She is due to get the biopsy results tomorrow but this evening I guess it's all got to her, she has said she doesn't want to go to the appointment. I'm terrified she is giving up before even knowing any prognosis. Like your mum, she doesn't want to go out or see anyone, appetite is barely there so has lost a lot of weight. 
    Im praying she does decide to go tomorrow. 

  • I'm so sorry to read this. It must be so scary for them. But your mum has come this far and she was brave to have the biopsy. It won't be nice at all hearing the results, but plenty of reassurance from you of love, support and whatever the results/advice you'll deal with it together and she's not alone etc. Remind her how brave she's already been, she just needs to brave again to get the results. I'll be thinking of you both tomorrow come back to chat if it'll help you xx