My mum has NSCLC :(

Hi guys, 

So it's been a rough year to say the least. My mum was diagnosed with non small cell ling cancer back in June 2022. She has gone through radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Unfortunately both made her very unwell. She ended up with pneumonia, her lung collapsed and they decided to stop the treatmenent. After this she tried immunotherapy. After coming up with a rash and nearly dying they stopped treatment. They also found a hole in her throat so she doesn't eat or drink she is fed through a tube that goes to her stomach. So basically yeah. We were told back in Decemember that she only had 3 months to live. This was prior to her nearly dying from treatment. They didn't give her another scan however back in December which I found really strange. She seems to be doing well but will not offer her anymore treatment although her doctor feels that they got it wrong due to how well she is looking and doing. Has anyone else been through something similar? We have literally had to book and pay for a private scan for her because the doctors just won't scan her again although she hasn't been scanned since they first found out. I feel like the system is letting her down a bit? Thank you 

  • Hello Char2010, 

    Poor you it certainly has been a horrendous year for you and your mum and I am sorry to hear she has been through so much and that radiotherapy and chemotherapy both made her feel unwell. It sounds like she has defied all prognosis though and I am glad she is doing well but I can understand why you are perplexed by the fact they are not offering any more treatment even though her doctor feels that they got it wrong. You did well to book that private scan as it would be good to know where things are at the moment and to get a second opinion. If you wanted to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses at any point, you can reach them on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

    I hope that you will hear from others on the forum who have been through something similar and that they will be along shortly to share their experience with you. We're thinking of you and your mum during this difficult time and I hope that you get some answers soon after you have the scan. If you don't mind and get a moment, keep us updated on what you find out after she's had the scan.

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator