My mother who is 80 just found out that cancer has spread to her lung, on the right side same as the original tumor and lymph nodes. It took a week and a half to get the results of her biopsy. The dr who did her 2nd surgery in Feb.2002 is sending her now to a thoracic/pulmonary surgeon next Wednesday. I'm guessing from what the ENT told her over the phone that the recommendation will be more surgery to remove the tumor and portion of her lung and possibly more radiation or chemo. Needless to say she has had the wind knocked out of her by all of this. She had been doing relatively well at home on her own for the last year. I wonder when it is time to say enough is enough when it comes to invasive surgery. At this point I think my mother is so numb she will go along with whatever this doctor tells her. The whole idea of more surgery and radiation at her age and in her already compromised situation from previous treatment sound almost cruel. I guess we will have to see what the latest doctor has to say about her options. Not trying to depress anyone here, but am wondering if anyone has gone through or is going through the same situation with an older parent or friend? My mother is not one for self pity, but I am sure she is not looking forward to what is coming next.


Vince