Saw doctor today, sound right?

Christine B.

Today I saw the chemo/onc. before my 6th chemo on Monday.We were talking about next steps.I have Stage IV CA Metastatic to Pleura.Before my first chemo,I found a bump on my chest which turned out to be ovarian cancer.After the first chemo,it along with something in my neck could no longer be felt.The Dr.scheduled a CT of my chest, abdomen, and pelvis before I see the gyn/onc in March.He said that the results will determine whether I will have surgery to complete the hysterectomy etc. which could not be finished during my first surgery in Sept.He said that even though the bump seemed to be gone, he expected there was still something there and that if so the gyn/onc would probably not opt for the surgery.I got the impression that in this case I would continue to battle this cancer with chemo.He said either way I would probably always return for chemo treatment.Is it anyone's experience that once it's moved to the chest, it's going to probably not be completely gone?Can I at least hope that it is completely gone from the chest since it seemed to disappear with the first chemo?By the way,CA125 numbers have dropped steadily from 2400 before surgery to in the 40's after my 4th out of 6 treatments.The gyn/onc could not feel anything in my last pelvic exam.Can I hope that even though the chest involvement is not completely gone and the gyn/onc opts for no further surgery,no remission or NED, that the cancer can be kept in check with chemo?My dearest prayer is for surgery to not only complete what was started, but also to reverse the colostomy and someday have a chance for remission.I am still battling with this new way of life and the changes it has made, like my decision to retire from teaching after 28 years and pray that I will find peace with it.Thank you, Christine

pattysoo

at peace
Yes to all your questions. Chemo is very powerful, especially the first line. Stay hopeful and good luck. By the way, a second (or even third) opinion is always a good move. Your insurance should cover it too.

Tethys41

Never Say Never
Christine,
I think anything is possible with this disease. The Doctors don't even know what is going to happen. There are options out there. I posted some information under Rose_Marie's post titled CA125 you might be interested in.
Hope all goes well,
Kate

Tethys41

Another option
Christine,
I feel compelled to mention another option that is available, especially because you live so close. When I was sick, I went to the Oasis of Hope in Mexico.
www.oasisofhope.com

It was a terrifying prospect, going to a second world country for cancer treatment, but it is an amazing hospital. There are miracles every day there. They incorporate all therapies that are successful in cancer treatment and are not restricted by the FDA. You can contact them and make a telephone appointment with one of their doctors. He will discuss your case with you and let you know what treatment he recommends.

When I went, I had the treatment that works with the chemo to sensitize the cancer cells to the chemo meds so they are more effective. While you are there they give talks on what foods to eat and they load you up with supplements to take home to continue your treatment.

Kate

Tina Brown

Hello Christine
Your situation is almost the same as mine. I have stage IV with mets to the pluera. My is primary is not ovca but Peritoneal. I had 6 rounds of carbo/taxol last year and my numbers went from over 1,000 to 34. Throughout it all I was "fluid free" around my lungs as the chemo kept it at bay. I did have several chest drains before starting chemo though.

However, my numbers went up last Oct so I am back on chemo. The fluid returned and I have had another chest drain but the not all the fluid has gone.

I too am hoping that the chemo can keep this at bay. I can't have surgery as the cancer cells are too small and too spread out. I really understand how you are feeling as, also I am a teacher and am facing up to having to reduce my hours or take early retirement.

It is so hard to come to terms with not only having cancer but having to make a different life without teaching.

Please keep me up to date with how you are
Tina xx