- Search CSN:
- Members: Login to search all areas
- Not a member? Click here to search public areas
Newly diagnosed parent
|
|
Jul 22, 2012 - 3:34 pm
Hi everyone, my father has just been diagnosed with small cell lung cancer in the 3rd stage with presence in the lungs and lymph nodes. The doc gave him a 2 year prognosis. I guess I'm reaching out to the discussion boards for some advice and perhaps to provide me with hope. I have to be strong for my mom and for my dad but it's been really difficult to visit him without feeling the need to cry. Maybe I'm asking advice on how to act around him so that we can fight this battle and give him hope. How do you remain positive? If there is anyone on these boards who have beaten the odds I would love to hear your story. Thank you. |
Joined: Mar 2011
Hi Kat,
So Sorry for the circumstances that bring you here. If it is any help, I was given 10-15 months 21 months ago and I am at stage 4. I do know that the docs try not to be optimistic so as not to create false hope or to get themselves sued.
What concerns me though about your dad's diagnosis is that at a stage 3, whether it is 3a or 3b they are not going for a cure. I would immediately make an appointment for a second opinion. I correspond daily with lung cancer patients across the country and this is the first time I have heard of treatment for stage 3a or b that the doc did not plan treatment without curative intent.
Also, I just reread your note. Is your dad small cell or non-small cell? The reason I ask is that small cell is usually limited (contained in the lung)or extensive (moved by metastases to other organs). Would you please find out what kind of chemo or radiation he is having? It is important to note that inoperable does not mean untreatable or incurable. Also find out if they tested for mutations. Don't worry if you can't get all the info at once.
Stay in touch!
Joined: Aug 2012
My husband was diagnosed on May 13, 2005 with Stage 4 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer - Alveolar Cell Carcinoma. Our doctor did not give a prognosis; he said “what’s not available today may be available tomorrow”. We knew the odds weren’t good statistically, but we had been given hope. My husband also had mind over matter, he said tell me what to do and we will kick cancers bu