Lost an Aunt (Wife's side) and my mother-in-law had a double done due to breast cancer. She did the diet change and chemo as well, but she's a 7 year survivor now.
One Army buddy is a 10 Year survivor after they told him 6-8 months. Had his thoat cut out (esophogeal cancer) and can't talk, and drinks food from a blender, but can type about 200 words a minute into his 'talking machine'. He's now single again (wife was a bitch - wouldn't quit smoking in the house!!) and he's back teaching martial arts (black belt in 2 or 3 styles I think) !!!
There are ways to beat it. http://www.cancercenter.com/
Best of luck to your friend!!