If she has had no treatment since her diagnosis, these symptoms mean that her cancer is probably spreading, perhaps putting pressure on the nerves in her arm.  If your aunt has had a chance to talk to the doctor about exactly what treatments she needs to save her life and has decided that she would rather die than lose her breast or her hair, then that is her decision.  I know elderly people who have decided that the cancer is a sign that their time on earth is over, and for them that is the right decision. However, it sounds like you believe that your aunt is resisting seeing the doctor out of fear.  It may be that comparatively simple surgery would have been the only treatment she needed six months ago.  It is still possible that she could have years of good health following cancer treatment depending on how much it has spread. Is there a person whose authority your aunt respects who could talk to her about her fears?  Perhaps a pastor or older person in the community could help her sort out her reasons for refusing to see a doctor and encourage her to go back to the doctor.