Questions asked of the doctor.

[ConcernedInNY]

OK, my brother spoke with the chemo doctor.

1.) They will test the CA-125 right before she starts her 3rd chemo treatment.

2.) He asked after the 6 treatments if they can give her a 7th and possible 8th. The doctor said no - absolutely not - she said especially because of her age, she doesnt want to torture my mom, especially since she had those blood clots. She was very firm on this. I can understand that, but can she really give an answer this early in the game? Does this sound correct to all of you? My mom did have a week delay and they reduced the dosage by 10% on the 2nd treatment.

Thanks.

[suzsen]

My mom's dose was also reduced after her 2nd or 3rd treatment, and I think it was more than 10%.  She is 16 months post-chemo and doing quite well.

How old is your mom?  (Sorry, I lost the earlier thread)

[ConcernedInNY]

Hi Suzsen.

My mom is 75 years old.

Its tough to keep track of everyones story.  Can you refresh me on your mom?

Thanks.

[suzsen]

My mom was diagnosed in Feb 2004 at age 67, Stage 3.  She had surgery and 6 months of chemo.  It's been 17 months since her last chemo and she is doing well.  CT scans are clear.  CA125 has gradually risen from 8 to 26, but the dr says as long as it doesn't double between checkups (every 2 - 3 months) or go over 35, and her CT's are clear, she should go and enjoy herself.

When she finished the chemo, the nurses told her to  enjoy her chemo-free time.  Realistically, the cancer may eventually return, due to its stage and her age at diagnosis.  But perhaps it won't; and if it does we hope it won't be for a long time and she will go thru treatments and then have more good chemo-free time.

My dad did not want mom's chemo dose reduced, but it was too difficult for her to tolerate the higher dose and it is better to have some chemo close to the scheduled time than to have to stop completely or take months off.

I know you only want the best for your mom, but please try not to be TOO aggressive.  As the dr said, she should not be tortured.  It's hard to stand by and watch and feel as if you have no control, it makes you want to DO something.  But sometimes patience and trust in the drs and their experience is best.  It sounds like your mom has good drs and a great family to support her.  

I am in no way advocating that you should give up; just remember to make the most of the good time that you do have.  Spend time with your mom and if possible, do the things she enjoys doing.  Any one of us could be run over by a bus tomorrow!

[ConcernedInNY]

Hi Suzsen.
Thank you for sharing.  She has been without chemo for awhile which is a great sign.  Even if thereis a recurrence, they could probably use the same meds.

Just wondering if you know her CA-125 level before surgery and how many treatments it took for it to drop.

I only see my mom on weekends and I cherish every moment Im with her.  This past weekend she looked so beautiful and was a sight for sore eyes. Even if I get my wish and she has 10 more years, it still wont be enough time.

[suzsen]

Unfortunately they never did a CA125 on my mom before her surgery so we don't know what her initial level was.

I live in New England and my parents are in S Carolina, so I only see them about 3 times per year.  So don't feel bad about your weekends!