Advanced lung cancer treatment

Hi, my mother in law has just been diagnosed with advanced lung cancer, spread to her lymph nodes, hip, spine and ribs.

We are absolutely devastated and shocked as her only symptom has been a dry irritating cough. She looks so well at 71 and is physically fit. She has oncology appointment on Monday and we are wondering about treatment. She's thinking maybe not having treatment as the side effects frighten her and she feels fine now . 

I know that treatment may give her more time. She is depending on us to help her make the right decision. It's so difficult to know what to say.

 

  • Hello Goldie123; welcome to the forum.  So difficult to have to make decisions when your mother in law has just had the shock of this diagnosis.  She needs to talk with the oncologist; make a list of questions before she goes to the appointment and take someone with her so nothing is forgotten and answers to her questions are written down.  Obviously the decision lies with your mother in law; she will hopefully be in a better position to make the decision - she doesn't have to make it on the spot - when she has the information she needs.  Questions like what difference to her life span will treatment make; what are the likely side effects: only she can weigh up the pros and cons and make that decision ultimately.  Sorry if I make this sound purely clinical - I realise this is something traumatic and life-shattering.  My best wishes to you all.  Annie

  • Thanks Annie

    Me and her daughter are going with her Monday. I think she would happily bury her head in the sand, just wondering how long she would have if she didn' have treatment. She might not even want to know. We will chat and have some questions for the oncologist.