still in shock

[Idontlikeyoghurt]

Ten days ago I believed that my husband aged 73 just had a really bad cough, two days later he had an emergency operation to save his life which meant a stent was implanted in his windpipe and the following day I was told he has aggressive lung cancer. We wil not know anything further for a few days and I am not looking for answers just the best way to look after him.

[JanetteR57]

always upsetting and shocking seeing loved ones ill and the diagnosis has no doubt sent you both reeling. Treatments have changed a lot in recent years for lung cancer and a lot depend on the specific type of tumour (including mutations) and the patient's fitness to tolerate them if clinically eligible. Therefore as you suggest, caring for their needs including ensuring they keep as active and well nourished as possible and get as much sleep/rest as possible are all important factors.

Roy castle lung cancer foundation has lots of regularly updated and easy to understand information on its website about every aspect of lung cancer from the many and varied diagnostic tests to obtain a diagnosis, the many different types of treatments alongside all manner of information about living with lung cancer - such as working with, travelling, eating well, and other aspects. There are also many patient stories and video case studies that show the many 'faces' of lung cancer which can all experience different treatments and lifestyles.

Their nurse led helpline opens tomorrow (Runs Mon-Fri) and there are also online groups, telephone support and information that can be read/downloaded online or posted to people by completing the form online or calling them.

Thinking of you and sending you luck and strength to deal with the next steps which are likely to be a consultation to explain what treatments may be available. take care

roycastle.org/help-and-supp...

[Idontlikeyoghurt in reply to JanetteR57]

Thank you Janette I certainly intend to read and research as much as I can. Hopefully will hear from the oncologist any day soon with a treatment plan or not and then I will be much better informed for my search. It definitely helps knowing there are people out there to talk to.

[JanetteR57 in reply to Idontlikeyoghurt]

At this stage I'd use trusted websites like Roy Castle foundation as so much comes up under google that is outdated, inaccurate or from other countries where populations/healthcare systems differ. Unless something is from the last few years, it's out of date as more treatments have been approved in the last 10 years than the previous 30. At this stage I'd also err on the side of caution of looking in too much detail about the many and varied treatment types until you know more about which treatments may be offered - your head will swim otherwise! Most of Roy Castle booklets suggest questions to ask of the clinician and many suggest recording the appointment if possible. Often a clinical nurse specialist is assigned to the patient at the first meeting and can be a really useful contact and resource for further questions. Good luck.

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear Idontlikeyoghurt

So sorry to hear about your husband and how difficult this must be for you both dealing with the shock of the diagnosis.

It can be quite a rollercoaster of emotions, that come on suddenly, can be very intense, and at times overwhelming. We are here to support you in any way that we can. I have placed below some links for both information and support that may help.

You may wish to start with the 'Managing your lung cancer diagnosis' booklet: roycastle.org/app/uploads/2...

Our information booklets are from diagnosis, the different treatments and living with lung cancer, if you would like any of these posted out to you, you can email us at [e-mail]

roycastle.org/help-and-supp...

This is our booklet on 'How can I help someone with lung cancer' roycastle.org/app/uploads/2...

Macmillan support online also provides information on caring for someone with cancer: macmillan.org.uk/cancer-inf...

We offer one to one phone support for either you or your husband as well as online support groups through zoom, you can view and register for these through this link: roycastle.org/help-and-supp...

JanetteR57 has provided good information on managing the day to day for now and wait and see what the doctors say at the next consultation. You are very welcome to contact us either by phone or email to the nurses on 0800 358 7200 Monday to Thursday 0900-1700 and Friday 0900-1600, or you can email us at [e-mail]

Do take care of yourself also.

Kind regards

Ask the nurse support team

The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation