Had a friend tell me recently that he thought chemo was a modern and approved version of euthanasia.  The chemo may buy a few miserable days, but many times people die from the after affects of the chemo.  Chemo killed my father.  I really think it largely depends on age and health.  My father many times told us before he was diagnosed with a brain tumor that he would not do chemo or radiation if he was ever diagnosed with cancer but when he actually was faced with the decision it seemed like he could not turn a Dr. down if they suggested chemo.  Many people act like Drs are Gods and they have to follow their suggestions.   Tractoraddict:  Hope things turns out OK with your mother!