1. At what time does the clock start counting down until the end (can a person have lung cancer for 2 years, have NO signs of cancer AND still be living)
2. How long does he have
3. When the end is near, will there be any signs or could there be none
I’ve read many posts on the internet regarding Stage 4, people saying that a person had died after finding out 3 months, 2 weeks, 1 year, etc. I’m confused at what point did the clock start when the end came.
I was told by my 82 year old father’s physician that he has Stage 4 lung cancer. He had smoked for many years and quit at 50.
He had a shadow on his lung last year, and in Nov 07 he had a CT with CONTRAST that showed it had grown. The physician told me it was now the size of a nickel (grew 4-10) and that it spread into the other lung. I apologize for not having all the medical terminology but I feel he was sure that it was Stage 4. Dad WILL NOT have biopsy (I know only way to know for certain-please do not suggest-he just will not).
Few days later after reading on internet, I called physician back and asked if he could have TB-he said no; if cancer was in his brain-he said no; if it could be Sarcoidosis he said yes – THOUGH no explanation on this – but after reading on internet does not seem like that’s what he has because of age, race, etc. Again, I feel the physician feels that it is Stage 4 – he told me that when time comes it could come from pneumonia or stroke.
My father had breakdown when found out mom has dementia (though I feel it’s extremely mild, or she’s hiding it very well) so I moved in to take care of them (gave up my life). This is a very stressful taking care of them AND wondering when and if he’ll die. (Just a FYI: I know about caregivers stress and am taking care of that also).
I know this is speculative – but I REALLY NEED to know IF it is true that he has Stage 4, the answers to the questions above. I wake up every morning and wonder if he’ll wake up.
I appreciate any response-thank you.