In a spin, please help

Hi, my name is Angie and today had the devastating news that my husband has lung cancer. He has had a long period of Ill health starting with Covid, a heart attack on Christmas Eve 2021, quadruple bypass surgery in March 2022. Been back and forth to the GP with chest infections and sent for various x rays and investigations, then today had a CT scan. This showed a 3 cm mass with protrusions. We received the phone call from the GP within 2 hours of the scan and he has been further referred for a bronchioscopy. The tumour was in the lower left lung and was 'free' ?? and lymph nodes appeared to be ok.

Obviously I am reeling, feel sick to my stomach and lost as to the whole thing. I am hoping that someone can help me understand what is happening to us and how the heck do we cope. 

  • Hello Angie

    I'm so sorry to hear about your husband's diagnosis earlier this week. After everything he's been through over the past year or so, it's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed and worried by this latest news. 

    This period between the initial diagnosis and the specialists having a full picture to be able to give you a treatment plan can be difficult for many people. Often your mind will run through a multitude of scenarios and it can be hard to not think about possible worst-case scenarios. 

    We do have some information on our website about lung cancer which you may find helpful once you have a clearer idea about your husband's diagnosis and the next steps. In the meantime, I'd suggest giving our nurses a call and chatting things through with them. They're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040 and I know that they'll be happy to offer you some advice, information, and support ahead of your husband's next appointment. They'll also be able to help you think about questions that you might want to ask the specialist. 

    In the meantime, try to avoid using the internet to search for answers online. This most often leaves people feeling even more overwhelmed and anxious. Try to keep busy and not look too far ahead. just take things a day at a time. 

    Know that we're here for you if it helps to have a safe space to talk with others who understand, ask questions, or offload how you're feeling. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator