This section is designed to help you understand more about the issues facing people who are dying with cancer. We hope it will provide support and direction during this period.
Learn more about:
- Overview
- Coping with the news that you’re dying
- Common questions about dying
- Emotional and spiritual concerns
- Physical concerns
- Where to die
- Practical concerns
- Caring for someone nearing the end of life
- More support and information
Overview
If you have had cancer diagnosed at a late stage, or if the treatments have stopped working and remission or cure is no longer possible, you may be told that the cancer is end stage or terminal.
Everyone copes in their own way with this news. Your reaction may depend on your age, family situation, cultural background and spiritual beliefs.
We outline how you might feel knowing you are dying, what might happen physically, and how you can prepare for death. There is also information for carers, family and friends.
This may be the first time you have read about end-of-life issues. Read what seems useful now and leave the rest until you’re ready.
Cancer Council also has information on living with advanced cancer and palliative care. You may find that one of these sections is more useful at this time.
Video: What is end-of-life care?
Watch this short video to learn more about end-of-life issues, and how they may impact you and the people close to you.
More resources
Dr Megan Ritchie, Staff Specialist Palliative Medicine, Palliative Care Service, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, NSW; Gabrielle Asprey, Cancer Support Consultant, Cancer Council NSW; Rosemary Cavanough, Consumer; Louise Durham, Nurse Practitioner, Metro South Palliative Care Service, QLD; Tracey Gardner, Senior Psychologist, Cancer Counselling Service, Cancer Council Queensland; Karen Hall, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council SA; Linda Nolte, Program Director, Advance Care Planning Australia, VIC; Rowena Robinson, Clinical Advisor, Palliative Care Australia, ACT; Helena Rodi, Program Manager, Advance Care Planning Australia, VIC.
View the Cancer Council NSW editorial policy.
Need to talk?
Support services
Caring for someone with cancer
Speak to a health professional or to someone who has been there, or find a support group or forum
Cancer Council Online Community
A community forum – a safe place to share stories, get tips and connect with people who understand
Cancer information
Emotions and cancer
Learn about the range of emotions you may experience if you are affected by cancer
Advanced cancer
Information for all stages of advanced cancer, from the initial diagnosis to palliative care and grief