Seeking Help For My Sister

MissBullitt

My sister was just diagnosed with Stage IV Metastatic Ovarian Cancer. They said they can add maybe a year longer to her life with immunotherapy. She had no symptoms and was seemingly completely healthy up until some abdominal discomfort 4 days ago. Is there anything else we can do to fight this and extend her life? Are there any survivors out there? She's only 44

bibliophile

I just wanted to make sure you felt heard. I am so sorry for this unexpected diagnosis. I am currently fighting stage IV Metastatic Colon Cancer as a 48yo female. I was getting very good care from my local oncologist but am still glad I went and did a consult at a much bigger cancer center. They just have so much more experience at rare and aggressive cancers. Also, this forum is a great resource. Search the old discussion boards using key words, give people some time to answer, get on the evening live chat if you just need someone to talk to. Best wishes!

mylabs2

Please seek a second opinion & consult from a respected cancer research & treatment center. There are many of them out there-not sure where your sister is located. These centers are on the cutting edge of new treatments & will be able to offer options that are not available elsewhere. Good luck & God bless!

NoTimeForCancer

MissBullitt, I can't imagine what my sister felt when I told her I had cancer. I do know none of us fight alone and need the love of our family and friends in the fight. Hugs dear to you and your sister.

*I am a visitor from the Uterine/Endometrial page. Like to check on my gyn sisters

AnneN

Immunotherapy is looking very promising for various cancers. A friend, also OVCA stage IV, was in a trial at MSK in NYC, and she responded very well. It is not a cure, but it has given her more time. It is important to connect to trials at major cancer centers as they are on the cutting edge of research and new therapies. This is a horrible disease. Sending hugs.

KathrynG

I know 5 ovarian cancer survivors out 10 years and going strong. They all had surgery first. This can be cured or controlled.

Don't go to MD Anderson.

I was recently diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian and had no risk factors and I am heathy and athletic. My primary and 3 GI docs were treating me unsuccessfuuly for months for constipation. When I landed in the ER with a total GI blockage they found ovarian cancer! I am getting my care at Moores Cancer Center UCSD in San Diego. I recently went to MD Anderson for a secong opinion. They had us travel there "in person". They asked us to set up a 4 day stay to get retested and meet with a team Our visit consisted meeting with a 35 yo gyn oncologist. The appointment was less than an hour and she gave me a horrible outlook. Agreed with the 50 yo treatment that "sort of works" ! Told me it would recur within a year after the brutal treatment and then just a game of darts. Our assessment was over. That was MD Anderson! I have no respect for this institution. They offer nothing new , dismissed all my questions regarding new treatments and would not reassess me as I was told by their intake people.