Following all the tests required inc Pet scan which lit up like a Christmas tree, I start chemo next week for six months. Apparently it's everywhere, chest, spleen, bones, lungs. My question is though I am being urged to have this therapy, would this be advised if there was no hope. What's the point of being poorly for what time is left? Would I really get told the truth?
Hello Dbs16,
Thanks for getting in touch with us during what sounds like a very difficult and stressful time for you. My name is Linda, I’m one of the nurses from our support line.
Welcome to our online community and I hope that you find it useful. Some people find it beneficial to share their experiences with others in a similar situation. Please have a look at our cancer experience forums or our cancer type forums, if you think it may be useful for you.
I appreciate that finding out you have cancer can be shocking and there is no right or wrong way to cope with it. You may have lots of questions or you may need time to think about what you have been told.
It’s understandable that you’re questioning having chemotherapy for 6 months for Lymphoma. Chemotherapy is normally recommended to people who they consider will benefit from it and the healthcare team would be honest about the aims of the treatment.
I wonder if you would find it helpful to talk with one of our nurses directly. We can ask questions that would help us to understand your diagnosis and treatment plan in more detail. You can share how this is affecting you and ask any other questions that you may have. Please call us on the number below if you think this may help.
I would encourage you to talk through how you are feeling with your consultant and/or nurse. They can answer any questions that you may have and help to clarify the reasons for offering chemotherapy.
I hope this helps. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch with us if you have any other questions.
Take Care and Best Wishes
Linda J.
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us.
Ref:LJ/DW
