Dying of Cancer - what to expect

Hi Smurf1975

Thanks for getting in touch with Macmillan Cancer Support. My name is Sarah, I’m one of the Cancer information Nurse Specialists on our support line.

Firstly, I am sorry to read that your mum feels extremely let down by doctors, consultants and by Macmillan.  It is understandable that she feels scared, coping with terminal lung cancer and the affect this is having on her, both physically and emotionally.

Palliative care nurses who in some cases are funded by Macmillan, provide support in the community with symptoms such as weakness, weight loss and depression. They are also there to help you to make plans and support family too. We would encourage you to call your mum’s palliative care team to discuss your mum’s needs and request a home visit. If you do not feel that your mum is getting the support she needs, you can talk this through with her GP. When someone is being cared for at home their GP works with palliative care to provide support.

You can also call Marie Curie to see if they have nurses in your mum’s area.

It is natural for your mum to feel frightened and unsure of where to turn. Your mum may find it helpful to call through to one of our nurses on the support line. Although we don’t have access to your mum’s notes, it can be helpful to talk through worries and uncertainties and get support for any symptoms which are worrying her.

I hope this information is helpful and your mum gets the support she needs. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.

Best wishes,

Sarah

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 send us an email. 

Ref/ SS/JD