1st onc suggestions for Stage 4

impactzone
impactzone Member Posts: 555 Member
edited March 2014 in Colorectal Cancer #1
Thanks for all your great advise everyone. The first onc basically said treatment wise Folfox + Avastin for the 1 met in your right lobe (2.8 cm. They will continue this and moniter the tumor. Then transfer me to UCLA to a liver surgeon for surgery or radiofrequency abilation. The met is on the back side and to get to it for surgery they have to have a thoracic surgeon go through the chest and then resect the liver. I get the port in next week. He was positive, did get me some Xanax for the night and provided hope which was much needed.

Comments

  • Moesimo
    Moesimo Member Posts: 1,072 Member
    #2
    There are many stage 4 survivors on this site. I was only a stage 3. It has been 3 1/2 years since my diagnosis. I never thought I would get through this.

    It is good that you are getting different opinions. Then pick the onc that is the right fit for you.

    You will get through this. It won't always be easy, but you will get through this.
  • spongebob
    spongebob Member Posts: 2,565 Member
    #3
    Chip -

    Sounds like your onc has a good plan. Glad to see that you are sounding more positive and hopeful.

    Cheers

    - SpongeBob
  • jana11
    jana11 Member Posts: 705
    #4
    Just to let you know, I am stage 4 with lung met. I have had 3 thoractomies. what I want to tell you is that when I got my first lung met we all (my family) investigated good thoracic surgeons. I used to live in Houston and got all my care at MD Anderson. My father is a pulmonary doc and he made some calls. He found the top surgeons at MDA and UCLA. If you would like I will ask him the names of the UCLA people.

    Don't dispair. Sleep is tough in the beginning. If xanax doesn't help (be careful with the stuff because it is VERY addictive) ask you doc for a sleeping pill. They have lots of good options now.

    I got a port put in last year, and I am glad I did. Chemo damages your veins and I have little ones to begin with! It makes treatment MUCH easier. Ask the docs for a Rx for EMLA cream (topical lidocaine). You put a little on about 30 minutes before chemo infusion and can't even feel the needle prick at all!! (works like a charm for me!!) I've heard some patients say it doesn't work, but it is worth a try!

    Keep your head up! jana
  • Patrusha
    Patrusha Member Posts: 487
    #5
    I'm so glad to hear that things are looking more positive for you, impactzone. Attitude is everything! And looks like you've found a friend in jana11 who can recommend a good thoracic surgeon. Can't beat that, eh? Man, I love this board!

    I, too, have the port and it is wonderful. I used the EMLA numbing cream for my first infusion (I put it on two hours ahead) and I felt nothing. I highly recommend it.

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