This is what they mean by effective?

[ConcernedInNY]

I apologize in advance for this duplicate post, but I wanted to start another thread so that this thought doesnt get lost in the shuffle.

Anyway.....Turns out my brother wasnt paying attention.

I spoke with the doc myself....and she did say that the treatment is very effective and that 50% go into remission. The thing is, of those 50%, about 40% of those the cancer comes back.
I work with numbers for a living so this means, in agreement with the doctor, that the chances for long term survival are only 30%. They call that effective?!

The doc tried to comfort me and say you cant just look at those numbers. My mom had a successful surgery and right now she is doing well. I have to hold onto that. But still - the numbers terrify me.

I start the support group next week. Im falling apart - I cant sleep through the night and Im always crying. I have to be strong for my mom, but I cant pull myself together. Who the hell am I to feel sorry for myself when my poor mom, like many of you other women, have to go through this ordeal.

But come on, is 30% really considered effective? I was hoping for at least 50%. Actually the numbers really dont matter.....I just need my mom to fall into the category of beating this thing. Please pray for her.

Thank you.

[kathy o]

I had sent my name to the study at the UW and they are currently testing with 64 women. I want to make myself available for any study that might be the big thing!! Glad that you are slowly conquering with the chemo. I had a much easier time this go around and looking forward to finishing, going in for counts and neupogen shot today, talk to you soon, CHEEERIO!

[xrayu2]

If she is feeling good now, then make the most of the days she is feeling good.  When they found my granddad's colon cancer, they told with treatment they could give him a year.  He chose to go with a colostomy and lived nine months. He passed away the day I found I was pregnant with my first child.  He chose the quality of life verses the quantity.  He was 75 when he passed way.  Your mother may take the therapy and run with it- and be free 10 years from now.  Try not to focus on the stats-focus on each day you have with her now.  I will be praying for you!

[marie-williams]

I'm new to this site and am sorry to hear your news. This is a terrible time for you and your family. You have to be strong for your mother and try to be positive for her sake. Falling appart won't do her any good. Be as informed as you can and try to be as positive and 'normal' as you can be when you're around her. From what I've read here and on the net they say not to pay too much attention to stats. Every case is different.

It must be difficult for her, I'm sure she's worried about this and all of you too. Does she have an outlet to let off steam? Our loved one loves computer solitaire and sudoku puzzles so we're stocking up for her. She is also having a lot of back pain, finding it difficult to get comfy, so we've got her a v-pillow.

[ConcernedInNY]

Thanks Marie.  Is it a family member of yours that has ovca?  I am trying ot be as normal as anyone can be under the circumstances...but its hard to smile and pretend everything is good.

Right now my mom feels and looks fine.  Im also thinking about when the treatments start how it will her affect her.  I want her happy and healthy for many more years.

I just keep saying I love her because I dont know what else to do.

[Gatsby]

You say your mom feels good right now, right?  Well you need to live in the moment, do not get so caught up in the what ifs and how longs.  You need to be happy with her now.  As the saying goes try not to "borrow trouble".  Granted, it is hard not to look at the statistics.  Your mom is not a statistic, so please try to keep that in mind.  If we live our lives worrying about tomorrow, we will miss the wonderful things that happen today.  Each day is a gift and we must enjoy it.  Godspeed
~Tascha

[tellme]

What a beautiful thought - "each day is a gift and we must enjoy it". Enjoy each moment with your mum. Let her open up and tell you how she is feeling. She strikes me as a very strong woman. Do not for a moment see yourself as weak. You are NOT. What you are going through is a hard thing to bear and how can you be weak if you are able to express what you are feeling. I give you a BIG hug and wish you peace in your heart. Keep the faith - stay POSITIVE. Nothing could be stronger.