It makes me sad to know that whoever is reading this is probably suffering themselves or through a loved one.
A dear cousin of mine has recently been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. It has spread to both lungs, spine, thigh, and hip. She started chemotherapy today and I will be the primary caregiver. I am terrified of this responsibility and of losing someone I love. I am 57 years old and have, fortunately, never lost a close relative or friend.
I need to know what stages a patient is likely to go through........... is the end inevitably painful? Does a patient usually become bed-ridden? I don't have any concrete idea of what to expect.
I also need to know how to prepare my cousin's 83 year old mother for the future. She lives with my cousin and knows that she has lung cancer, but does not know how advanced it is. There are no other children.
Can anyone help me with advice?
Thank you and I wish you all courage and strength.
Lynna