Stopping chemo

I know this has to be such a hard decision and only you know when enough is enough. I pray for you and your tough choice. I always told myself that I may decide to stop but the good thing is I can change my mind too. Bless you. Jeff

I’ve never had chemo, but I can certainly sympathize with your decision. But you still have a lot of options, and once you get a second breath, you might want to consider them!

There are some new western medicine cancer fighting drugs that are not considered “chemo”. If your Oncologist hasn’t suggested any, perhaps it’s time to find a new Oncologist! Taking some time and interviewing oncologists in other areas of the country, can often provide a new lease on life!

And of course, there are still “alternatives” to try. Not the expensive “alternatives” geared to rich Australians, but fairly inexpensive alternatives that almost anyone can afford.

I won’t push anyone into trying the herbs I used, but the list is there for anyone to consider.

If doing something different doesn’t break the bank or make you sick, why not try it? You already took the time and effort, and the brunt of the force against your health and spirit using western medicine’s toxic chemicals, so why not try something healthy?

Get a second breath, you need it! Then reconsider –all- your options; there’s a lot waiting for you!

Think well; Be well.

John

I just don't know what to say. This is something I worry about with regards to my husband. How will we know when it's time to stop? I hope this decision brings you peace and may you enjoy the time you have left. You're a very brave person.

Chelsea

of your treatments.  My husband made the decision to stop chemotherapy and now focuses on his comfort therapies only.  We do not feel that he has given up, it is simply a change in the way he has freely chosen to deal with his incurable cancer.

I know that you have recently started Irenotecan treatment that has been rough for you both physically and emotionally.  You have also begun to or have, lost your hair.  These are very difficult challenges.

Your desire to stop treatments may be a momentary decision that results from the difficulties you now face that have compounded for you ... or, you may have truly reached a decision that if you face a limited life span from incurable cancer that you want to spend that time having therapies that feel more dedicated to your well-being like massage, acupuncture, TCM.

Irenotecan can extend your life but the quality of that life may not feel right to you.  Stopping chemo can also actually extend the quality and quantity of time you have left.

Strong support for whatever decision you choose.

Best to you and your family -- Cynthia 

I know that there is a time when we all have to make this desicion, and I know it has to be very heartbreaking. 

You may find that you have a better quality of life without the chemo, and you never know, with a good diet and exercise, you may be able to be around longer than you think.

Please know that you are in my thoughts and in my prayers. 

and we will support you, whatever choices you make, as you walk the rest of the journey.  Someone on the other cancer forum stated that she didn't want to die with chemo in her veins, and personally I'm in total agreement with that feeling.  I hope that this decision gives you peaceful time to enjoy with your family, free of suffering.  Many hugs~AA

I'm so sorry to hear that decision that you have made but can understand completely.  You have gone the great struggle to heal and when you decide that it's enough it is.  My prayers and thoughts are with you as you continue to go forward with your decision.  Please keep us informed and know that you are in my prayers.

Kim

I can relate with Joe's comment. People die everyday with out being able to say how much they love someone. This experience allows all of us to treasure the time we have with people we love. You're courageous.

It's already been said.....but I think that a person knowing how they are responding or not responding to treatment is a healthy thing.....because from this comes Knowledge...and from Knowledge comes Choice.

It's always easy to say fight on....it takes a great deal of courage to even consider an alternate way of thinking....and then quite another to make that commitment to follow your heart.  And having some good time available when you're feeling pretty good would certainly enhance your situation. 

I agree with you that I would not want to be taking chemo if it were really down to it....that Irinotecan is some of the toughest stuff I ever did.  And I know for several of us, that it has been particularly tough - while others have fared much better with it with far less side effects. 

But, for those of us where Irinotecan is such a main staple, it really makes things hard for one to feel well...and so, I totally respect your decision to spend time with your family and gain some enjoyment and fulfillment from that. 

It is a brave decision still and we so appreciate you sharing your thoughts with us - as these types of personal reflections always echo through the canyon walls of the community and reverberatre inside each one of our hearts and minds as we try and imagine ourselves in this position and how we would handle that - while hoping we don't have to face one of the toughest decisions in the entire journey.

Which is.....knowing when to say When...

I'm saddened by the news, Vicki, but completely understand your perspective.  I've enjoyed getting to know you some and watching your transformation through the journey of your own personal growth has been an honor and a privilege.

Thank you for all that you shared!

I hope that whatever decisions that you make will be the very best ones for you and your family. 

If you ever need to talk - I've always got my ears on to listen:)

I wish there was more that I could say.

Biggest hugs with lots of respect!

-Craig