Don't automatically panic just becuase they said they found some in the lymph nodes. While generally not a good sign, that doesn't mean for sure it has spread to other parts of the body. I would ask if they've only found it in the lymph nodes in the area, or if they have found signs elsewhere. Also ask about common metastasis. Every different type of cancer has areas it is more likely to spread to. This can give you an idea of to expect going forward.
I would also ask what they know about the type of cancer. Different precursor cells are more aggressive than others, and some types will respond better to treatment than others.
As far as trying to be there for the original appointment, you could look into doing that for moral support, but I would think about waiting until nearer the end of the treatment time if I were you. Chemo is very hard on the body, as you are essentially poisoning it and trying to kill off the fast growing cells first. It will vary depending on the type of treatment, but generally it will leave the person very tired, something that will get worse as the treatment goes on. How people generally respond to the type of treatment is something the doctor should be able to let you know. If you can take some time off I would look at going out to help out with things like housework a little ways into the treatment.
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask me, I worked in a cancer research for several years. It was a while back but I still remember some
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