taxotere and progressive breast cancer treatments

My Dad's girlfriend (49) was diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few years ago. She has been through several types of radiation and chemo treatments ( 7, I believe) but the cancer has now spread throughout her body. She has a severe tumor in her stomach and finds it not only extremely painful but is unable to eat much. A couple bites of a cracker is all she can eat at once. The cancer is quickly taking over. The doctors have given her a few months to live. They are now suggesting she take Taxotere since nothing else is helping anymore. She does not want to take it because she is warn out and just plain TIRED. She is also concerned with the possible side effects.  What suggestions/ points of inspiration can you give me for her and what information can you tell me about your experiences with Taxotere?...or any other alternative treatments for such a progressive state of cancer?Thank You!

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear cupcake, The goal of chemotherapy at this stage would be to try to control the disease and perhaps alleviate some of the symptoms of cancer.  Taxotere has its own set of side effects, which could include; allergic like reaction to the treatment.  Bone marrow depression leading to decreases in white and red blood cells as well as platelets, which may make her more susceptible to infection, anemia, or bleeding.  Fluid retention, numbness or tingling of the hands and feet, hair loss, skin rash are also possible effects.   While on treatment she would be watched closely in terms of the side effects.  With the goal being control of the disease rather than cure of the disease, as well as hope to alleviate symptoms, the tolerance for side effects that cause further discomfort should be low.   Meaning, making sure she is communicating any problems she may have with the chemotherapy with her doctor so that appropriate recommendations for managing symptoms can be made.