Living day by day

[Watermelon67]

I have small Cell lung cancer received chemo and radiation ended treatment March 2023 all clear, restaged cat scan in Sept of 2023 and it was back started immunotherapy opdiva starting end of Sept 2023 the tumor didn't leave but wasn't spreading. In jan was diagnosed with a numerological issue and can't recieve treatment. Had a cat scan and showed multiple nodules in February, oncologist said there is nothing else they can do and recommended hospice. Haven't decided yet. I feel good right now wasn't given an estimate on how long I have bit living day to day. Today is March 31st.

[JanetteR57]

Sorry to read about your situation - sounds very hard. Several friends and colleagues who feared using hospice services thinking it meant 'giving in or giving up' found their ambience, friendliness and supportive services much better than they'd imagined and also found such places uplifting and very caring.

They're often better placed to help with pain management and listening than hard pressed public services and many have volunteers who've lost somebody or used the services.

Hospices have an image problem - many families use them for example if they have a child with a life limiting condition - it doesn't mean they're sad or forlorn places but often aim to make people feel happier and make the most of their time. Our area doesn't have any hospices nor cancer support services centre although many wish it had - given the prevalence of cancer in our area which scores highly on every socio-economic deprivation index - but historically hospices like convalescence homes used to be built in leafier/coastal areas than the middle of suburbia.... our area commissioned hospice at home service as most people wanted to end their days at home not in a hospital as so many especially those in care homes were whisked off to hospital when poorly which was not their chosen place at all. The service whilst well received clearly lacks the situation of getting to know others or sharing fears, concerns and hopes with others that may be possible in a hospice setting. Some areas have Marie Curie or Sue Ryder hospices or independent hospices - worth looking online to see what's available. mariecurie.org.uk/help/supp...

Medics' estimates of how long people live are based on averages and guesswork - but none of us are average and I know many who've way surpassed whatever was suggested but living for the end probably isn't the best way to live. hope you can make the most of your days even living day to day - thinking of you ...