My over 76 year old mum was diagnosed with lymphoma of the neck today (Nov 1, 2010). She is to start chemotherapy in 2 weeks time. We fear she may not withstand the chemo treatment. How do we disclose her illness to her?
Since I don't know your mum it would be difficult for me to answer either of your questions. I'm sorry that you're in this position of having to break the news to her. What I can say is that it doesn't seem the Dr. would order the chemo for her if he/she didn't believe she could handle treatment. I've seen people that appeared to be in their 80's receiving chemo. Is she in good health otherwise? What type of lymphoma does she have and what is the stage and grade? What type of chemo treatment will she be receiving? Please don't be a stranger, and keep us informed how things are going. I'll keep you and your mum in my prayers :-)
Thank you so much 2dawn. I appreciate you taking time to respond and empathize with me. This is a dark moment for me and I appreciate your prayers. Will keep you posted.
Hi this is my first post i am sorry to hear about your mum you see I am in the same position my father diagnosed with mantle cell stage 4 high grade will be starting chemo in 2 wks afraid he will have bad reaction to it
Welcome to supportgroups ... 2dawn makes a very good point, namely that oncologists typically take into serious consideration the overall health of the patient when determining whether or not they can withstand chemo. That said, it would help to know what chemo drugs they are receiving, since that could make a big difference.
Mawork, do you mean to say that your mother's doctors disclosed her diagnosis to you, but not to your mother? Do you live outside the US?
Ross