David - Yes, It all certainly has to be considered on an individual basis. There were plenty of times that I encouraged my husband along (just as you state above) and also reminded myself to stay positive. But a false sense of "cure by positive thinking" is not for every situation or person. Having said that, the encouragement I've received on this forum based on realistic information has been invaluable and I thank everyone.

I suggested this approach to my husband:
Your job is to do whatever is necessary to get through treatment. Forget about meeting the expectations of others. Now is the time to be self centered.
My job is to take care of everything else. Together we'll get through this part and then evaluate the next step based on the prognosis.

Charm - Your wife is so right. People just do not understand the ramifications of this treatment. Remember the thread about a receptionist that told an OC pt, "You'll be able to drive yourself to rad tx. My sister just finished rad for breast cancer and she had no problem driving." Then the after effects... Lottie