Hi there. My mum was just diagnosed with lung cancer, which looks like total misunderstanding, and we're all in denial stage. There's anger, despair, misery, misbelieving, all mixed up together. Unfortunately, doctors say it's true. Now she's in hospital for further diagnosis and during setting the treatment plan. And here's the thing, I won't be waiting patiently for them to only treat her with chemotherapy, or hopefully immunotherapy. Don't take me wrong, i know it's the only way, and sometimes it gives some time, and she'll get the treatment. But we all know chemo&radio are destroying, weaking, and she's already so weak. I just want to help my mum, help along this standard treatment. I read a lot researches about different supplement support, e.g. vit D3, omega 3, mushroom extracts to boost immunity, to decrease cancer cells growth.. And my question is, do you have any experience or knowlegde regarding any supplements that might help alongside standard hospital treatments? Thanks in advance
Hi Saddy, welcome to the group, but sorry to hear about your mum. Everything you are feeling right now is completely normal. I know when I was diagnosed, I kept thinking for days that the doctor would call and say there was a mistake, and it was just a nasty chest infection. Of course he didn't and the reality soon sinks in. The early days are the worst, when all the tests are being done, and you are waiting for the results, but once you get the full diagnoses and a treatment plan, the shock wears off and you do start to feel better. There is no real acceptance of the situation, but once you start treatment, you start to regain control.
Any supplements that you Mum may take would have to be checked with her medical team, as some may interfere with any medications or treatment your mum may be on. There are many supplements that I cannot take as there is a chance they can adjust my hormone levels and as my cancer is hormone dependent, this will make my tumours grow.
I will pop a link to a diet and supplement fact sheet HERE for you which may help.
It is very scary when a family member receives a cancer diagnoses, and the fear of what is ahead, but talking to others who are in a similar situation to yourself does help you through this difficult time. There are a few people in the group who are caring for loved ones with cancer, but you may also want to look at the other support forums on the community.
You will find several people there who are going through a similar situation to yourself. You can also call the Macmillan support helpline for support 7 days a week from 8am til 8pm on 0808 808 00 00
Take care
