YAROSLAVL, RUSSIA Shortly after the woman was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, she was found dead on the train tracks. She chose to commit suicide and lay down on the tracks rather than face this insidious disease.
Stage 4 cancer is also sometimes referred to as metastatic. It is the most advanced phase of the disease, in which the tumor has metastasized to other parts of the body and spread. Although it is not a good diagnosis and treatment is difficult, in many cases, thanks to advanced medical science, patients can be cured even from this stage or the growth of the cancer can be significantly slowed.
In this case, the medical procedures for delivering such a serious diagnosis probably failed. In civilized countries, it is common for such diagnoses to be communicated in a way that never leaves the patient feeling hopeless. Immediately after being informed, patients usually have the opportunity to talk with a psychologist or psychiatrist.
If you’re thinking about suicide, please stop and recognize that your pain is not permanent, but this step would be. It may feel like there’s no other way, but there is hope, even if it’s hard to see right now. Your feelings are temporary, and with help, they can pass.
Talking about what you're going through might feel difficult, but it’s the first step toward healing. Don’t turn away from the people who want to support you. Life can offer more than what you're feeling right now, and the pain doesn't have to last forever. You deserve help, and it’s available.
If you need immediate help, please contact a helpline.
