How long does my Aunt have?

[jodyc]

My Aunt is 65 and has been fighting Ovarian Cancer for 8.5 years.  She just underwent surgery for small bowel obstruction and other problems related to the cancer.  It has been 2 weeks and she is still in the hospital.  Her bowel has not opened yet.  Tuesday the doctors told her that the cancer has spread and she has tumors around the outside of the intestines. There is no more they can do for her they've said.  We are trying to get her home with Hospice.  My question is, Now that the cancer is spreading and they are not treating it what is the 'average" length of time she has left. Her attitude is great and she is a fighter.  I just want to know how much time she may or may not have. Is it weeks or is it months?

[Anna-maria74]

Yes my first thought when I read that is why cant they do any more? Has every avenue really been exhausted!

Anna X

[medresc]

Did the gynecologic oncologist weigh in on this or just the medical oncologist?  They may not want to do more surgery due to recent surgery or age, but there should be a reason why they 'cannot do any more'.  Without more details it's hard to tell (like what is the size of tumors, etc. or how many).  She/you may want to look into a second opinion (can't hurt) since this is life threatening.

No average time...this is a unfortunatley a common question that can't always be answered.  Many factors decide when such as if an infection occurs, overall condition, impact on other organs, etc.  For example if a tumor grows and cuts into the main blood supply in the gut, that can be it quickly.

But yes, look into hospice no matter what especially to get any pain under control...going hospice does not mean you have to end treatment altogether as you can continue looking at other options/doctors and if so you can leave hospice (hospice has absolutley no problems with their patients leaving if they get better!).  Also there is home hospice.  It's almost not necessary to go inpatient nowadays unless it's easier for the caregivers.

But I agree with rmarie, 8 year survivor is outstanding.  Enjoy this time with her, create a memory book of her life, etc.  Enjoy enjoy enjoy!  I know that sounds hard to do but do things together, get your mind off things if even for a little while.

[rmarie]

I am sorry to hear about your Aunt, to be an 8 year surviver is terrific.  As for time, nobody knows, everybody is different.  Your Aunt has a great attitude and is a fighter, love and support her for however much time she has left.  Hospice is great, they will be a great help to you.