Pancreatic cancer diagnosis. What's next.

Hi 

My mum was diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas, liver and lung in mid September 2016. A devastating blow after 6 months of tests and going from an active woman to a shadow of herself unable to eat or drink. Her weight loss was considerable and only after a CT scan was her cancer found. No MRI scan was ever offered. Should it have been?

Up until Friday they were going to try Chemo to help her but we were told she is very weak so Chemo may be too agressive for her. However, she was given steroids to boost her appetite and I can see a difference in her demeanour and she is eating well. 

Her Macmillan nurse came out to explain the Chemo procedure on Friday and left mum feeling that there was hope and she was given a tremendous boost by the visit. Later on Friday came a call from the szme nurse however saying that the Oncologist had decided that after blood tests he had concluded her bile ducts was now blocked and that Chemo would not be given.

This news was broken over the phone on a Friday afternoon. I am hurting so much for my mum and dad who is reeling from this. No explanations, nothing. We are to see the GP on Wednesday to ask for a second opinion or at least an explanation of what is to come. I feel very let down.

L.

  • Hello Flofly,

    A warm welcome to Cancer Chat. I am sorry to hear about what happened to your mum and how it was suddently decided that chemotherapy would not be prescribed.

    I think it is always a good idea to seek a second opinion. Did you see the GP today? I hope the appointment was useful and that you have found out more about what is to come. If you get a chance let us know what they said!

    Best wishes,

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi Lucie

    We saw the GP and will meet with the Oncologist on Monday but that's another week wasted really and time is not on our side. The bile duct is blocked and no word or offer of a stent being fitted. I asked about Enzyme  replacement but doc only asked if mum she had dihorrea to which she answered no so no script was given. We are all feeling very lost.

    L x

  • Hello Flofly,

    Oh no I am sorry to hear that! I do hope you get somewhere and that you feel a bit better soon.

    Perhaps you could ring our cancer nurses and talk things through this them? They are very friendly and you can reach them on this free number 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

    I hope the meeting with the oncologist will go well on Monday and that you do get some definite answers - if you get a chance, let us know what he or she advises.

    Best wishes,

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator