My mum was diagnosed around 2 weeks ago with gallbladder cancer. She hasn't asked at this point how long she has. Suggested treatment is chemo (she is currently on holiday at the moment so not sure whether it is tablets or the other, or both). They have said that it is inoperable.
I wanted to know what the "lesions" part means.
I know I shouldn't, but I've been trying to set my own expectations I guess as to how long I have with her. So I've been searching online into staging and prognosis etc. I just don't know and don't want to prompt her into asking if she doesn't want to find out. Can anyone help and provide some more information or insight?
It has all come as quite a shock to the family as up until 6 weeks ago or so she has had no symptoms whatsoever. Dealing with the news has been hard so far. But I feel I need to know more.
Hi and welcome to the online community
I'm sorry to hear that your mum has recently been diagnosed with gallbladder cancer. It must have come as a tremendous shock to you all.
Can I start by saying that I'm neither a member of this group or medically trained so I might be completely wrong with my understanding of what a liver lesion is. However, my understanding of lesions is that they're groups of abnormal cells that have come together and doctors also describe them as a mass or tumours. These lesions can be both benign and malignant.
Unfortunately, the only person who will be able to tell you what your mum's staging and prognosis are is her consultant. If she doesn't want to know then you can speak to her team with her permission.
I'd advise that you stay off Google, as tempting as it is, because you won't find the information specific to your mum there only generalisations and worse-case scenarios. If you want to try and research further about your mum's condition then stick to this website, Cancer Research UK or the NHS.
You may also like to join the family and friends group where you can discuss your worries and get support from others who have a member of their family living with cancer.
To join just click on the link I've created and then choose 'join this group' on the page that opens.
When you feel up to it, it would be really useful if could pop something about your mum's journey so far into your profile as it helps others when answering or looking for someone with a similar diagnosis. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Edit Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.
x
Hi Kelly, I’m sorry you must all be in a state of shock. From normal to surreal overnight. I understand the ‘searching’ for answers as a daughter. Cancer research uk I found a good source of information. Plus lovely people on the gall bladder forum. There are a few in my thread. But go through the historical messages as many people are on here who can help with practical advice. my mums experience was different, but as her daughter I know what the ‘searching’ felt like. My profile details my mum.
Obviously I am no expert but can give some advice We wish We had known earlier. Once you have a Specialist clinical nurse assigned, use them as a contact point. They should give you a card. Ring them. Make notes in the oncology meeting. You think you are listening but it’s hard. Don’t ask questions if your mum doesn’t want to know the answer. Have a list of questions ready.
Be pushy about best care if pushy is needed.
Phone gp as well, they will have been informed. But wait until your mum is home and she might want you too by then. Biggest advice, listen to mum xxxx
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