Appointments with a neuro-oncologist can move quickly, and it is easy to leave with more questions than answers. Julie Crawshay knows this experience firsthand. After her husband Nic was diagnosed with glioblastoma, she learned how much a prepared list of questions can change the tone of a consultation. Through The Neuro Farmacist, Julie Crawshay shares the kinds of questions that help families feel like active partners in care rather than passive recipients of information.

Questions about the diagnosis

Julie Crawshay with her husband and children on a family day out in Sydney, Australia
Julie Crawshay with her husband and children on a family day out in Sydney, Australia

Start by making sure you understand the tumour itself. Helpful questions include: Where exactly is the tumour located, and what functions does that area control? What grade is it, and what do the molecular test results show? Many neuro-oncologists recommend discussing markers such as MGMT methylation and IDH status, because these can shape treatment decisions. You can read more about these in our guide to MGMT and IDH markers.

Questions about treatment options

Once the diagnosis is clear, the conversation usually turns to treatment. You might ask: What is the recommended plan, and why this approach? What are the goals — controlling the tumour, managing symptoms, preserving quality of life, or a combination? What side effects should we prepare for, and how will they be managed? Julie Crawshay suggests also asking how each step fits into the overall picture so the plan feels coherent rather than piecemeal.

Questions about clinical trials

Clinical trials are an important part of the GBM landscape, and many families want to understand their options early. Useful questions include: Are there clinical trials I may be eligible for? Is there a trial like GBM AGILE that might be appropriate? When is the best time to consider a trial? Research suggests that asking about trials early keeps more doors open, since eligibility can depend on timing and prior treatments.

Questions about daily life and support

Medical details matter, but so does everyday life. Consider asking: What can we expect day to day? Who do we contact between appointments? What support services, such as social work or palliative care for symptom management, are available? Julie Crawshay built The Neuro Farmacist partly to remind families that asking about support is not a sign of giving up — it is part of comprehensive care.

Bringing it all together

It can help to bring a second person to appointments to take notes, and to record questions in advance so nothing gets lost. The free GBM Caregiver's Resource Guide from Julie Crawshay includes prompts you can bring along. For ongoing, accessible explainers, many caregivers also follow The Neuro Farmacist on Instagram.

Good questions do not change a diagnosis, but they do change how informed and supported you feel walking through it. That sense of partnership with your medical team is exactly what Julie Crawshay hopes every family can build.

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always discuss your specific situation with your qualified medical team.