When cancer can't be cured

While the majority of childhood and adolescent cancer patients survive, some young people die from the disease. Some adults also do not survive such a life-threatening illness.

If cancer treatment is unable to kill the cancer cells, then the patient will eventually die from the disease. Young people in particular have stated that knowing the truth was important to enable everyone to make informed decisions about the future, and that discussing the possibility of death made it more possible to concentrate on living, and reduced the fear and loneliness. People with cancer have often stated that talking about it honestly with their doctors, family and friends gave them the opportunity to say what was important for them.

Enjoying life with a terminal illness often depends greatly on having the symptoms under control. Even if the disease has no cure, palliative medicine can be administered to relieve symptoms and treat any physical problems. Many cancer patients who are terminally ill find that their priorities change and life and death take on new meanings. They often decide to take greater control of their lives and focus their energy on setting short-term, realistic goals and living for the present, rather than focusing on the uncertain future. Being positive and thinking realistically has been identified as an important way of dealing with what’s happening. It is important to remember though, that being positive means:

• You can cry if you want to or need to.
• You can talk about things that are negative or frightening. Just because you talk about them doesn’t make them happen and can lessen the feelings of intensity and doubt.

There are lots of people out there who can help you deal with these feelings and issues. Contact your local CanTeen Division and they can help you by either having a chat, or directing you to an appropriate person outside of CanTeen.

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