My mum was diagnosed last week along with metastasis in her lungs. A stent was fitted Friday to help with the jaundice and itching. Mum didn't want to know how serious it is or how long she may have but as an only child and single I needed to know what I may be facing in terms of care etc so I could be prepared. I saw a specialist nurse Friday who explained the stent would hopefully give her 'a few months' and I know from what I've read that it might not be many.
The nurse also told me they wouldn't be offering her any treatment. She said chemotherapy is often not as effective in the elderly and side effects can out way benefits. This came as a shock as I thought they would offer something. Mum is bright in herself, no pain, feeling pretty well now the stent is in and raring to get home which should hopefully be later today. Two months ago she was digging drainage ditches in her garden, I can't help but feel she's just being written off because of her age. I'm sitting listening to her talking about plans for when she gets home and next year whilst knowing they aren't going to treat her and she may not have much time and at some point she is going to ask me about treatment and what am I going to say?
We lost my dad two years ago after five years of cancer treatment for three different cancers that she nursed him through, it's so unfair on her. I'm angry, upset, frightened, lonely and finding it hard to accept that they aren't going to try anything to help her. Sorry this is long winded but just trying to decide if I should ask for a second opinion or even approach a private cancer specialist, has anyone experienced anything similar with an elderly parent being offered no treatment?
Thank you
