Hi. I relate to your post very much. My mum has just been diagnosed with cancer. Although we haven’t got to the point of having all of the tests, she says she doesn’t want surgery or chemo. I think it’s very natural for us to want loved ones to ‘fight’ and accept any treatment offered, but sometimes it comes down to quality of life over quantity for the person with cancer, particularly if there isn’t a curative option. I’m glad you’ve had the conversation about it with your mum…I have done the same. I made it clear that I would never pressure her into receiving treatment, as long as she is fully understanding of the consequences. She was so relieved to hear me say that. As your mum is an experienced nurse, I’m willing to bet that her decision is very thought through and logical, however I understand how painful it is for you to deal with xx

It depends on the circumstances.
Sometimes people thoroughly think things through and opt out of treatment for logical ressons.

Sometimes people make hasty choices because they’re scared of treatment based on fears generated decades ago when pain and side effect management were less effective than they are now.

I was told there was probably only a 3% chance of surviving for 5 years. If I’d been fearful of the side effects, I might have opted out of treatment as several friends and colleagues advised (even though I didn’t ask for their opinions!).

I’m glad I had the treatment as the outcome was far better than I dared hope for at the time.

We need to respect whatever decisions our loved ones make but we also need to help ensure they make fully informed decisions - which is a hard balance to maintain.

Best wishes
Dave

Hi Dave, thank you for your reply. It is a difficult balance. My Mum was a nurse for years and she is 81. Her reasons are logical and are thought through which I totally respect. 

So pleased you have have a good result from your treatment.

Best wishes

Cath

Hi Dave, thank you for your reply. It is a difficult balance. My Mum was a nurse for years and she is 81. Her reasons are logical and are thought through which I totally respect. 

So pleased you have have a good result from your treatment.

Best wishes

Cath