Forum Discussion

Jaci's avatar
Jaci
Member
13 years ago

OPTIONS RUNNING OUT

Have not posted much on this site but feel compelled to do so today.  Have jus received the news that the third type of chemo - Xeloda - is not wroking for me, after AC and Taxol.  It appears that the cancer is "chemo resistant" and the only suggestion was a reversion to an old type chemo combination which sounded more toxic than anything to date.

So the Qualify of Life issue has surfacdd of course and I mus choose to cease chemo, continue or try the last ditch one.

On consideration and given the way I have been feeling physically it looks like opting out for other than palliative treatment is the one to choose.

Not a good choice, but at least my children are grown with their own familites and my husbank will cope no matter what he thinks at the moment.

Con't know how many others on this site have been to this stage and what their decision has been and how they have gotten support/help to get them through.

My oncolotist is great as is his staff and the pall care people seem OK too but not much interaction with them as yet but I see it coming.

Suggestions as to pain relief, some fitness so you can get around and how in the world do you beath the nausea??  All gladly accepted.

I guess it is the next path in life that is on the way and a new journey will begin.

 

Jaci

6 Replies

  • Pamelamary's avatar
    Pamelamary
    Member
    13 years ago

    Dear Jaci,

    Just want you to know that I admire the courage of your decision, and see it as one that all we ABC women will have to make some day. Having struggled with Docetaxol recently, I came to a point where I could take no more.

    I understand the palliative care teams are excellent, and should be able to help with issues of pain, nausea, etc, as well as the psychological aspect. I have been part of a peer support service and have had great reports about palliative care, which more women should make use of even before ending treatment.

    Perhaps you will even have a time of feeling better, as often it is the treatment that makes us so sick. Regardless, I hope you can make the most of your time, and send loving thoughts to you and your family.

    Warm wishes..... Pam

  • Pamelamary's avatar
    Pamelamary
    Member
    13 years ago

    Dear Jaci,

    Just want you to know that I admire the courage of your decision, and see it as one that all we ABC women will have to make some day. Having struggled with Docetaxol recently, I came to a point where I could take no more.

    I understand the palliative care teams are excellent, and should be able to help with issues of pain, nausea, etc, as well as the psychological aspect. I have been part of a peer support service and have had great reports about palliative care, which more women should make use of even before ending treatment.

    Perhaps you will even have a time of feeling better, as often it is the treatment that makes us so sick. Regardless, I hope you can make the most of your time, and send loving thoughts to you and your family.

    Warm wishes..... Pam

  • Anne_Maree's avatar
    Anne_Maree
    Member
    13 years ago
    I don't know if you feel up to it but try googling wellness warrior.
  • Anne_Maree's avatar
    Anne_Maree
    Member
    13 years ago
    I don't know if you feel up to it but try googling wellness warrior.
  • Simone_S's avatar
    Simone_S
    Member
    13 years ago

    Jaci...I just wanted to let you know that I am in no position to provide any tips but I read your post early this morning and you have been in my thoughts ever since. It is such a brave decision you have made and no one can understand it except for someone who has been there. I'm not sure where you live, but a friend of mine who late stage bowel cancer has been connected to a number of resources through the hospital and her pallative care team to assist with both the physical and emotional issues she is facing. City Mission (in Melbourne) have even sent someone to work with her and write her life story which she has found very gratifying.

    I also found the Cancer Council to be a great point of contact for resources as well if you feel you need them.

    I hope someone out there with a bit more experience is able to help you. You and your family are in my thoughts xxx

  • LouiseTurner's avatar
    LouiseTurner
    In Memoriam
    13 years ago
    I read your post the other day and you've been on my mind since. I feel like I have nothing I can offer you, this disease is just so crap. But I wanted you to know that your message is not ignored, just very hard to accept. I hope you find the answers you are looking for and the peace you deserve. Warm hugs Louise