Choices about treatment

danker

treatment

I was 77 when dxed.  Had chemo pump 24/7 while getting radiation 5 times a week.  After 6 weeks rest had resection.  Ned (no evedence of disease) ever since.  I'm soon to be 87.

Thus don't let your mothers age effect your/her decisions.  I'm living proof that Cancer can be beat,no matter your age!!! Good Luck!

ellend

treatment

I also went through the chemo/radiation route before surgery. The reason they do this is to shrink the tumor before surgery. It worked very well on my tumor and it almost disappeared when treatment was done. I was able to avoid a permanent colostomy where if the tumor didn't shrink, it probably would not have been the case. I didn't really notice any side effects for the first couple of weeks, but started to see them later during the treatment. Bowel movements became very painful due to the radiation. The Xeloda affected my hands. Pay attention to the instructions on skin care and talk to the doctor if the side effects are troublesome, he or she can prescribe some things to help.

I was stage II and am currently NED 2 years out. I still live with some negative side effects from the treatments, but it isn't that big a hit on my overall quality of life.

Ellen

myd

Choices about treatment

Hello, electing to have treatment is a very personal decision.  Stage 3 is not a Stage 4.  Granted, it is not known whether cells are already out there, but just no detectable.  Depending on her physical condition and strenght, it could be strongly suggested to go on with the treatment.  If your mother is already impaired by other ailments, then, the decision becomes a lot tougher.  My wife was diagnosed when she was 46.  At that age, the decision to fight was a given.  At 73, I do agree that the decision is difficult.  I think it must be understood that Stage 3 is curable, but treatment must be swift and with force.  I wish your mother and your family the wisdom to make a decision that will serve her and you the best.  My wife lived for 8 years.  We had good and bad times.  I don't know what I would have done, if she had not decided to stay and fight.  God Bless!

jtrue

Thank you all for the support!

I just wanted to thank all of you who have commented and shared your stories and support. I was trying to respond to each to you individually, but I can't keep up. 

I've shared your comments with my mom, and she's thinking about it. She agreed to meet with another medical oncologist and also the radiation oncologist, so we'll see what happens. 

When I posted my original question, she was still in the hospital, but she's home now and doing well, and getting used to the colostomy. It's amazing what a difference it has made for her to be back home and getting some of her independence back (and eating home cooked food!). There's a long road ahead no matter what she decides, so she's taking it one day at a time. 

I really appreciate all the support, and I'm encouraged to hear all of your stories. Thank you!

k8

At 84 years old

 my mother was diagnosed with liver and pancreatic cancer. She was in chemo last year for 3 or 4 months. She rarely complains and when she does it's usually trip to ER. They gave mom a low dose of chemo which didn't cause severe side effects. Your mom should really speak with an oncologist. She can stop chemo at anytime. Thoughts and prayers. 

Kazenmax

I believe the radiation may

I believe the radiation may shrink her tumor and relieve the pain caused by its size and location. Maybe she could try it and see how well she does. She can always stop.

sending love and peace to your mother and you.

k