MIL diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer

Hi Everyone, 

We are new to all of this so please bare with us. 
My husbands mum has just been told she has stage 4 breast cancer with mets to her liver, breast bone, hip and possibly lungs. She had breast cancer 20 years ago. 
We are all quite shocked as she shows no symptoms what so ever and for her age (70) seems fit and well. 
She has chosen to refuse all medical treatment as she wants to live her remaining time happy and without hospital appointments etc.
We appreciate everyones journey is different but is this normal? To be told you have incurable cancer but feel normal? How quickly does this all change? How much time do we have together? 
We feel very in limbo as to what to expect or any plans we should be putting in place.

Many Thanks for any advice ️

  • Hello pruss

    I'm so sorry to hear about your Mother in law's diagnosis. It sounds as if it's come as a great shock to you all.

    It's not uncommon for people to decline treatment and to enjoy whatever time they have and it's good to know that at this point she's feeling fit and well and able to enjoy doing the things that she wants to do. 

    It's impossible to say how things may progress for your Mother in law and it's understandable that you feel in limbo at the moment. I don't know how/what your Mother in law may feel about giving permission to a family member for them to speak with her GP or the hospital so that you can get a little information and guidance, particularly about what practical support may be available, to help you prepare for the coming weeks and months. You might also like to have a look at the information we have on our website about living with secondary breast cancer

    I'd also recommend getting in touch with one of our team of nruses. I know that they will be able to help with information, advice, and support. If you'd like to chat with them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I hope this helps. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Many Thanks for your reply and advice. I think it would be a good idea for myself or my husband to ring her Doctor for more understanding of what might be about to happen. I dont think she would mind us doing that.

    Kind Regards

  • Hello Pruss

    Just be aware that they won't be able to give you any information without your Mother in law's permission so you may want to chat with her and then check with the GP if they are happy for verbal consent over the phone or if they need something in writing. 

    I do hope that you can find the answers and support that you need. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator