help needed please

A very close friend has just told me that they have lung cancer. They are an adult, who is very old fashioned, stiff upper lip and all that. They haven't really asked any questions, and don't know/understand anything. They have had radiotherapy, and will be having intravenous chemo, every 3 weeks for 2 years. They don't want to bother doctors to ask any questions, but don't seem to know any more than that. We are trying to support, but don't know what type of lung cancer, or how bad.  from the treatment plan, is there any way we can work out what's going on? We are hoping as soon as they start chemo, they let someone go with them to supprt them and ask questions

  • I am so sorry to hear that. At appointments I find your mind goes blank and you can't think of questions at the time. Would it be possible to support them to write some questions down, ready for their next appointment? They can then add to the list as and when. Do they wish to know anymore? They may decide they want to be comfortably oblivious. All you can do is keep offering your support, at least then they will know you care. 

  • Hello Dinglefamily and welcome, as Griffin-hunt said does your friend want to know, I have 15 years in cancer/healthcare, but i am NOT an expert, ,so this is only my thoughts, radiotherapy is often the first treatment for early non small cell lung cancer and is used to try to cure, Regarding chemotherapy patients can be accompanied and you can ask questions.