N++So I had my latest oncology appointment yesterday. Before thex-rays.
appointment I had a chest x-ray to compare and contrast with previous
The oncologist noted no significant changes on the latest x-ray, but--
because I mentioned that I was getting increased bouts of
breathlessness and coughing fits he has brought forward my CT scan
from late February to late January. The CT scan will give more
detailed information for him to look at.
If there are significant changes shown I'll be offered chemo. So we
then spoke about the pros and cons of chemo. Pro: it's likely to
extend my life from months to about a year. Con: it's likely to make
me feel very, very ill. There are additional drugs which may help and
give me a few more months, but they're not available on the NHS. I'd
have to source that privately and that's likely to cost -u12k per
treatment cycle. I may get in touch with an oncologist with a private practice to discuss that option further. As it is, I can probably
afford two/three treatments.
The device that Robin mentioned isn't available through the NHS. It
may be possible to get that privately but that may cost upto -u40k per month. So that's not going to happen unless I win the National
Lottery, which would be ironic, doncha think? Like rain on your
wedding day, a free ride when you've already paid?
Apart from all the above, I feel perfectly fine at the moment. Which
in a way is a bit annoying?
Apologies if these messages of mine annoy/irritate you but you can
just choose to ignore them. They make me feel better, so that's that.
As I'm not on Facebook anymore, feel free to repost any of this
rubbish there - especially if you're subscribed to rec.motorcycles.
For those that know Ged Martin and because he's off Facebook nowadays,
I'd pronmised to post an update for him. Here's his own words.
On 15 Jan 2026, at 23:02, Gerard Martin wrote:
x-rays.
???So I had my latest oncology appointment yesterday. Before the
appointment I had a chest x-ray to compare and contrast with previous
The oncologist noted no significant changes on the latest x-ray, but
because I mentioned that I was getting increased bouts of
breathlessness and coughing fits he has brought forward my CT scan
from late February to late January. The CT scan will give more
detailed information for him to look at.
If there are significant changes shown I'll be offered chemo. So we
then spoke about the pros and cons of chemo. Pro: it's likely to
extend my life from months to about a year. Con: it's likely to make
me feel very, very ill. There are additional drugs which may help and
give me a few more months, but they're not available on the NHS. I'd
have to source that privately and that's likely to cost u12k per
treatment cycle. I may get in touch with an oncologist with a private
practice to discuss that option further. As it is, I can probably
afford two/three treatments.
The device that Robin mentioned isn't available through the NHS. It
may be possible to get that privately but that may cost upto u40k per
month. So that's not going to happen unless I win the National
Lottery, which would be ironic, doncha think? Like rain on your
wedding day, a free ride when you've already paid?
Apart from all the above, I feel perfectly fine at the moment. Which
in a way is a bit annoying?
Apologies if these messages of mine annoy/irritate you but you can
just choose to ignore them. They make me feel better, so that's that.
As I'm not on Facebook anymore, feel free to repost any of this
rubbish there - especially if you're subscribed to rec.motorcycles.
Sol <solcambs@gmail.com> wrote:
Fuck. I'm truly sorry to hear this.
Pass on a hi to Ged from me, we used to exchange emails years ago
but we lost touch.
For those that know Ged Martin and because he's off Facebook nowadays,
I'd pronmised to post an update for him. Here's his own words.
On Jan 17, 2026 at 7:26:38 AM EST, "Sol" <solcambs@gmail.com> wrote:
For those that know Ged Martin and because he's off Facebook nowadays,
I'd pronmised to post an update for him. Here's his own words.
Oh, that's sad to hear.
Not a commentary on Ged's choices, but it were me, and the options are "a few months" or spending $36K to live a year, I'd take the money and spend it on the most incredible holiday with my family - hit five or six of the best cities in the world, stay in the best hotels, and eat at the best restaurants.
While IrCOm not in that place yet, I have thought about this a bit, and I agree. ItrCOs not even like yourCOre getting a good year, typically just prolonging the misery for a few more months. Fuck that.
On Jan 17, 2026 at 7:26:38 AM EST, "Sol" <solcambs@gmail.com> wrote:
For those that know Ged Martin and because he's off Facebook nowadays,
I'd pronmised to post an update for him. Here's his own words.
Oh, that's sad to hear.
Not a commentary on Ged's choices, but it were me, and the options are "a few months" or spending $36K to live a year, I'd take the money and spend it on the most incredible holiday with my family - hit five or six of the best cities in the world, stay in the best hotels, and eat at the best restaurants.
On Jan 18, 2026 at 10:08:27 AM EST, "Higgins" <the.best.names.are.gone@gmail.com> wrote:
While IrCOm not in that place yet, I have thought about this a bit, and I
agree. ItrCOs not even like yourCOre getting a good year, typically just
prolonging the misery for a few more months. Fuck that.
All the best to you, dude.
On 17/01/2026 15:56, Mark Olson wrote:
Sol <solcambs@gmail.com> wrote:
Fuck. I'm truly sorry to hear this.
Pass on a hi to Ged from me, we used to exchange emails years ago
but we lost touch.
Drop me a line (that ^ email is valid) - I'll share his email if you
ask. He's happy to get emails from rm and ukrm peeps. I asked if anyone asked for contact details what his preference was.
On 18/01/2026 14:49, Ben Blaney wrote:
On Jan 17, 2026 at 7:26:38 AM EST, "Sol" <solcambs@gmail.com> wrote:
For those that know Ged Martin and because he's off Facebook nowadays,
I'd pronmised to post an update for him. Here's his own words.
Oh, that's sad to hear.
Not a commentary on Ged's choices, but it were me, and the options are "a few
months" or spending $36K to live a year, I'd take the money and spend it on >> the most incredible holiday with my family - hit five or six of the best
cities in the world, stay in the best hotels, and eat at the best restaurants.
Quality over quantity of life. A conundrum I so far have not had to
face. One or two peer group members and old mates in that situation,
sadly. Depends, perhaps, if the treatment might also alleviate pain.
Peter Fisher <nospam@nosspam.net> wrote:
On 18/01/2026 14:49, Ben Blaney wrote:
On Jan 17, 2026 at 7:26:38 AM EST, "Sol" <solcambs@gmail.com> wrote:
For those that know Ged Martin and because he's off Facebook nowadays, >>>> I'd pronmised to post an update for him. Here's his own words.
Oh, that's sad to hear.
Not a commentary on Ged's choices, but it were me, and the options are "a few
months" or spending $36K to live a year, I'd take the money and spend it on >>> the most incredible holiday with my family - hit five or six of the best >>> cities in the world, stay in the best hotels, and eat at the best restaurants.
Quality over quantity of life. A conundrum I so far have not had to
face. One or two peer group members and old mates in that situation,
sadly. Depends, perhaps, if the treatment might also alleviate pain.
My father in law had some things to say shortly before he died
about end of life choices and balancing time vs. quality. His view
was that most folk who are healthy and aren't having to think about
their imminent demise don't really know how they will react once the
reality of their situation presents itself.
My view is that it's not a bad idea to think about it and to be
prepared as much as you can be, no matter what your eventual choices
are.
Right now I like to believe I'd choose like Ben and make the most of
what time I had left traveling and enjoying life vs. attempting to
eke out a few more months in pain and misery in some hospital bed.
But that assumes you have a "nice" scenario where it's a clearly
defined choice.
On 18/01/2026 15:39, Ben Blaney wrote:
On Jan 18, 2026 at 10:08:27 AM EST, "Higgins"
<the.best.names.are.gone@gmail.com> wrote:
While IrCOm not in that place yet, I have thought about this a bit, and I >>> agree. ItrCOs not even like yourCOre getting a good year, typically just >>> prolonging the misery for a few more months. Fuck that.
All the best to you, dude.
+1
Never really thanked you properly for offering to rescue the lad if his impulsive attempt at riding the Avenue Verte in January came to grief.
On 18/01/2026 16:40, Mark Olson wrote:.
My father in law had some things to say shortly before he died
about end of life choices and balancing time vs. quality. His view
was that most folk who are healthy and aren't having to think about
their imminent demise don't really know how they will react once the
reality of their situation presents itself.
My view is that it's not a bad idea to think about it and to be
prepared as much as you can be, no matter what your eventual choices
are.
Right now I like to believe I'd choose like Ben and make the most of
what time I had left traveling and enjoying life vs. attempting to
eke out a few more months in pain and misery in some hospital bed.
But that assumes you have a "nice" scenario where it's a clearly
defined choice.
Quite. The basic instinct to cling to life might manifest itself when
the time gets closer.
Peter Fisher <nospam@nosspam.net> wrote:
On 18/01/2026 15:39, Ben Blaney wrote:
On Jan 18, 2026 at 10:08:27 AM EST, "Higgins"
<the.best.names.are.gone@gmail.com> wrote:
While IrCOm not in that place yet, I have thought about this a bit, and I >>>> agree. ItrCOs not even like yourCOre getting a good year, typically just >>>> prolonging the misery for a few more months. Fuck that.
All the best to you, dude.
+1
Never really thanked you properly for offering to rescue the lad if his
impulsive attempt at riding the Avenue Verte in January came to grief.
No worries at all.
As for the cancer thing, I might have over-dramatised a bit as IrCOm really nowhere near that sort of decision. Currently, the radiotherapy is seen as still being a curative treatment but that doesnrCOt stop the occasional what-if.
Peter Fisher <nospam@nosspam.net> wrote:
On 18/01/2026 16:40, Mark Olson wrote:.
My father in law had some things to say shortly before he died
about end of life choices and balancing time vs. quality. His view
was that most folk who are healthy and aren't having to think about
their imminent demise don't really know how they will react once the
reality of their situation presents itself.
My view is that it's not a bad idea to think about it and to be
prepared as much as you can be, no matter what your eventual choices
are.
Right now I like to believe I'd choose like Ben and make the most of
what time I had left traveling and enjoying life vs. attempting to
eke out a few more months in pain and misery in some hospital bed.
But that assumes you have a "nice" scenario where it's a clearly
defined choice.
Quite. The basic instinct to cling to life might manifest itself when
the time gets closer.
Both of my parents died over the summer and their views were quite
different when it came to the DNR discussion. My father was adamant that
they should do everything possible to keep him alive and we had to have
quite a frank conversation about what resuscitation actually involved and
his chances of ever recovering from the trauma at 88 with fucked lungs. Basically making sure he knew that itrCOs not like the telly where they get the paddles out, a couple of bangs and then sitting up for tea and
biscuits. In the end it didnrCOt matter as he slipped away just as the doctor called us in for the end of life discussion.
My mother, on the other hand, was quite clear that when she went then that was it. I think partly she was just fed up with the COPD, and she was struggling without him, so she went 5 weeks later.
I hope to have her courage when the day comes.
As for the cancer thing, I might have over-dramatised a bit as IrCOm really nowhere near that sort of decision. Currently, the radiotherapy is seen as still being a curative treatment but that doesnrCOt stop the occasional what-if.
Quality over quantity of life. A conundrum I so far have not had to
face. One or two peer group members and old mates in that situation,
sadly. Depends, perhaps, if the treatment might also alleviate pain.
different when it came to the DNR discussion. My father was adamant that
On Sun, 18 Jan 2026 16:01:23 +0000, Peter Fisher <nospam@nosspam.net>
wrote:
Quality over quantity of life. A conundrum I so far have not had to
face. One or two peer group members and old mates in that situation,
sadly. Depends, perhaps, if the treatment might also alleviate pain.
Dealing with my parents' health issues in recent months and weeks has
only cemented my views on this. As you say elsewhere, I understand
that the urge to survive may kick in, which one can't predict or
allow for.
Dealing with my parents' health issues in recent months and weeks has
only cemented my views on this. As you say elsewhere, I understand
that the urge to survive may kick in, which one can't predict or
allow for.
On Thu, 22 Jan 2026 09:09:01 +0000, Champ <neal@champ.org.uk> wrote:
Dealing with my parents' health issues in recent months and weeks has
only cemented my views on this. As you say elsewhere, I understand
that the urge to survive may kick in, which one can't predict or
allow for.
This has moved on - my mum has been in hospital for 3+ weeks now, and
it looks like she is unlikely to survive. She's unable to control her swallow reflex (dysphagia) meaning she can't take on nutrients, and
(after this morning's phone call to the hospital) is refusing tablets. Yesterday I had a conversation with the medical team, and they said if
they cannot effect any improvement, they will just move to palliative
care, which I think is what will happen now.
I have a complicated relationship with my mother. We don't hate each
other, but I don't think either of us ever really liked or understood
the other. She obviously responsible for who I am, but some of that
is definitely not in a positive way. But, still, I will grieve when
she goes. Right now tho, I can only really see her death as a final
relief from her present discomfort and loss of dignity
This has moved on - my mum has been in hospital for 3+ weeks now,<snip>
I will grieve when
she goes. Right now tho, I can only really see her death as a final
relief from her present discomfort and loss of dignity
This has moved on - my mum has been in hospital for 3+ weeks now, and
it looks like she is unlikely to survive. She's unable to control her swallow reflex (dysphagia) meaning she can't take on nutrients, and
(after this morning's phone call to the hospital) is refusing tablets. Yesterday I had a conversation with the medical team, and they said if
they cannot effect any improvement, they will just move to palliative
care, which I think is what will happen now.
I have a complicated relationship with my mother. We don't hate each
other, but I don't think either of us ever really liked or understood
the other. She obviously responsible for who I am, but some of that
is definitely not in a positive way. But, still, I will grieve when
she goes. Right now tho, I can only really see her death as a final
relief from her present discomfort and loss of dignity
Champ <neal@champ.org.uk> wrote:
This has moved on - my mum has been in hospital for 3+ weeks now, and
it looks like she is unlikely to survive. She's unable to control her
swallow reflex (dysphagia) meaning she can't take on nutrients, and
(after this morning's phone call to the hospital) is refusing tablets.
Yesterday I had a conversation with the medical team, and they said if
they cannot effect any improvement, they will just move to palliative
care, which I think is what will happen now.
I have a complicated relationship with my mother. We don't hate each
other, but I don't think either of us ever really liked or understood
the other. She obviously responsible for who I am, but some of that
is definitely not in a positive way. But, still, I will grieve when
she goes. Right now tho, I can only really see her death as a final
relief from her present discomfort and loss of dignity
Sorry to hear about your mother and what you are both going through.
I think you turned out OK for what that's worth.
On Thu, 22 Jan 2026 09:09:01 +0000, Champ <neal@champ.org.uk> wrote:
Dealing with my parents' health issues in recent months and weeks has
only cemented my views on this. As you say elsewhere, I understand
that the urge to survive may kick in, which one can't predict or
allow for.
This has moved on - my mum has been in hospital for 3+ weeks now, and
it looks like she is unlikely to survive. She's unable to control her >swallow reflex (dysphagia) meaning she can't take on nutrients, and
(after this morning's phone call to the hospital) is refusing tablets. >Yesterday I had a conversation with the medical team, and they said if
they cannot effect any improvement, they will just move to palliative
care, which I think is what will happen now.
I have a complicated relationship with my mother. We don't hate each
other, but I don't think either of us ever really liked or understood
the other. She obviously responsible for who I am, but some of that
is definitely not in a positive way. But, still, I will grieve when
she goes. Right now tho, I can only really see her death as a final
relief from her present discomfort and loss of dignity
I think you turned out OK for what that's worth.
Tempted to quote Runrig lyrics from "Life is" but I know they areRunrig? Or lyrics?
universally hated round here so I won't.
On Tue, 3 Feb 2026 15:28:06 -0000 (UTC), Mark Olson
<olsonm@tiny.invalid> wrote:
I think you turned out OK for what that's worth.
You've never met him, then?
On 03/02/2026 19:04, Pete Fisher wrote:
Runrig? Or lyrics?
Tempted to quote Runrig lyrics from "Life is" but I know they are
universally hated round here so I won't.
In either case, why?
Chris
On 04/02/2026 12:08, chrisnd @ukrm wrote:
On 03/02/2026 19:04, Pete Fisher wrote:
Runrig? Or lyrics?
Tempted to quote Runrig lyrics from "Life is" but I know they are
universally hated round here so I won't.
In either case, why?
Chris
ISTR the last time I mentioned them it was all Runrig's music. Not
quoted the lyrics to that song before AFAIK. Easily googled by the idly curious.
Tempted to quote Runrig lyrics from "Life is" but I know they are
universally hated round here so I won't.
This has moved on - my mum has been in hospital for 3+ weeks now, and
it looks like she is unlikely to survive. She's unable to control her >swallow reflex (dysphagia) meaning she can't take on nutrients, and
(after this morning's phone call to the hospital) is refusing tablets. >Yesterday I had a conversation with the medical team, and they said if
they cannot effect any improvement, they will just move to palliative
care, which I think is what will happen now.
On Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:41:06 +0000, Champ <neal@champ.org.uk> wrote:
This has moved on - my mum has been in hospital for 3+ weeks now, and
it looks like she is unlikely to survive. She's unable to control her
swallow reflex (dysphagia) meaning she can't take on nutrients, and
(after this morning's phone call to the hospital) is refusing tablets.
Yesterday I had a conversation with the medical team, and they said if
they cannot effect any improvement, they will just move to palliative
care, which I think is what will happen now.
Not that I plan to give ukrm a running commentary on my mother's
health...but it's starting to look like the tough old bat might
actually get through this! Might...
On Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:41:06 +0000, Champ <neal@champ.org.uk> wrote:
This has moved on - my mum has been in hospital for 3+ weeks now, and
it looks like she is unlikely to survive. She's unable to control her >>swallow reflex (dysphagia) meaning she can't take on nutrients, and
(after this morning's phone call to the hospital) is refusing tablets. >>Yesterday I had a conversation with the medical team, and they said if
they cannot effect any improvement, they will just move to palliative
care, which I think is what will happen now.
Not that I plan to give ukrm a running commentary on my mother's
health...but it's starting to look like the tough old bat might
actually get through this! Might...
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