Treatment

I know it's disappointing but your oncologist is correct, stopping before 12 is not that unusual and you are still likely to benefit from the treatment you have had to date. I nearly stopped Taxol at round 10. My fingers weren't bad, a bit of numbness at the tips but my feet managed to be both numb in large patches, including the sole and heel and very painful in places, particularly the toes. I did worry about being able to walk and I would have stopped but finding a lump under my right arm (panic, biopsy, all clear - non malignant and unrelated) jolted me into deciding to stay to dose 12. Just in case. I do still have residual damage and after 5 years I think I always will. It doesn't affect much, my feet feel a bit odd (most days like wearing 2 pairs of socks) and any plan to take up running won't fly! But if your oncologist is already concerned, take heed. Peripheral neuropathy doesn't always start reversing when you stop the treatment and he will be aware of that. You still have two more types of treatment in your armoury. To date chemo is the best treatment for many types of cancer but never forget it's a bit like taking a sledgehammer to a walnut - not much room for subtlety or sensitivity. See how your tests go, talk again with your oncologist but have faith in your team. Very best wishes.