On 8/11/2008
sloughj wrote:
HI my mum has just been told that she has stage 4 non small cell lung cancer and has only 9 months to live. She has been offered chemo/radiotherpery. Which should she have first. she is in good health at the moment.
The Doctor who told her just blinded her with science(I was there too...)She's not sure what to do any advice/help
thanks
I'm sorry to hear about your mom. But although stage 4 is not cureable, it is treatable and people can live a long time with it. I was diagnosed almost 2 years ago with stage 4 nsclc in both lungs and I'm doing fine.
Your mom needs to get a 2nd opinion. And ask questions. The oncologist owes you straight answers. If something doesn't sound right, question it. Ask them to explain exactly what he means in terms you can understand. Have your mom sign the authorization papers so you can speak directly with the doctors.
Have they done a PET scan yet or a biopsy? Do you know what type cancer it is? All this makes a big difference. If you don't know the type, find out and then research it on the forums and the internet so you can get a better understanding of what is happening and if the treatments being suggested are the best for your mom.
As for the 9 month prediction, they don't know! I was given 6-12 months and I'm still here. So are many, many others. The stats are so old they are no longer accurate. They do not include any of the newer drugs either.
God be with you both during this trying time. There are many on this board that can help you and point you in the right direction. Just let us know how we can help.
God Bless and try not to worry too much. You've got a long way to go but if your mom is a fighter, she can do it.