Declining treatment

Hi I'm new to this site, so apologies if I make any errors! I would love to hear anyone's thoughts on deciding not to accept treatment following a recent diagnosis? I'll sort out information in my profile, to save you all having to read an essay on how I got here. Many thanks in advance

  • Hi Plaistow63 and welcome to the forum, i have advanced prostate cancer T4 N2 M2 spread to seminal vesicles, iliac nodes, bowels, bladder and anus, and as i have 3 lung and lower spine scans in 7 months it's probably going to spread some more, As my heart would not survive a general anaesthetic that leaves chemotherapy which my cardiologist was against, but in October last year a new surgical technique meant i could have some of the "minor" heart defects fixed so chemo could be an option. I have had 3 done with 1 to go in a week. and like you i am doing really well, totally independent and enjoying life. I know most of my cancers require surgery and chemo comes with lots of potential problems and to be honest though i am leaning to no treatment, i  will listen to my MDT first, take care, Eddie

  • Hello Plaistow63, you have gone through a lot and I do understand where you are coming from . 
    You said that you are pretty fit ,that sounds positive .Have a chat again with your team .

    My friend was diagnosed three years ago with pancreatic and bowel cancer ,they gave her 6-8 months to live .Initially she refused treatment but a few months in ,decided to have chemotherapy . Three years on and she is still well ,without pain or any other symptoms.

    See if you can chat to someone ,who might have gone through the same dilemma .

    All the best and keep in touch 

  • Hi   rumpelstiltskin, i have a few friends who also have terminal cancer and it is a subject that pops up from time to time. Between us we know many people with terminal cancer who have gone for treatment in the later stages and it has worked out well for some but for many it wasn't so good. take care, Eddie. PS who isPlaistowe63

  • Hi Eddie

    Kind of similar situation but different tumour group. To be honest with you, I've just got to the stage of being reconciled with the inevitable, so am happy with my decision to refuse treatment and attempt palliative chemo. With me, it would've been a total, radical neck surgery that basically removes everything. No quality of life in my opinion. As long as you're happy with your decision and the possible results, either with or without treatment, you'll be happy with it. I wish you well, whatever you decide. Take care

  • Hi SomersetGuy, I like to think i am a positive person, but also a realist and i know where i am now i am good, i do see  the chance of more time with chemo but not at the probable cost. best wishes, Eddie