3-6 months: i'm 50. been fighting Ovarian... - My Ovacome

My Ovacome

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3-6 months

KaliBana profile image
40 Replies

i'm 50. been fighting Ovarian cancer almost 9 years... last month my doctor told me there was no more chemo that i havent already tried and have 3-6 months to live... i'm a fighter but feel like im in this alone now.. and scared.

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KaliBana profile image
KaliBana
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40 Replies
babsclunn profile image
babsclunn

Hi kalibana

So sorry to hear your news and can't even imagine how you must be feeling as I am only at the start of the journey although inevitably this day will come

Have you tried ringing the ova come nurses am sure they will be able to talk with you and listen to your fears

My heart and prayers go out to you at this really tough time babs x

Lily-Anne profile image
Lily-Anne

I'm so sorry to read this, it must be very scary, miracles do happen, have my fingers crossed for yours.

LA xx

I agree speak to the Macmillan nurses. You may want to consider getting a second opinion on this. I know my time will come too, I am on the road about the same length as you. I am on maintenance Avastin for another month or so, Then a scan in October.Would your onc consider you for a trial, I gather from some members on here that there are trials especially in the Royal Marsden Hospital. I agree it is a scary time for you but you do need support and hopefully the macmillan nurses can provide this

daisies profile image
daisies

Hello. I am saddened to read your post and really can't offer any words of wisdom to ease your loneliness or fears of being scared.

It is a state we all must face at some time and I can only send you my warmest wishes and prayers.

Some sunshine will occur tomorrow to lighten your load and your friends here on this wonderful site,,,,are holding your hand and lighting candles along the road with you, as we share the same road.

love and hugs and kind regards.

Daisies xxx

hansraj28 profile image
hansraj28

Hi hats off to your fighting spirit , but do not give up yet . I do not know how far you are geographically fro London but there are several clinical trials going on in UCLH and Marsden . See if your onco will refer you ....in fact insist on it !

I am a stage 4 grade 3 OC now in my 8 and half yr , all chemo options exhausted and now on my second drug trial . It is not over till it is over !

GOOD LUCK !

Whippit profile image
Whippit

Dear Kalibana

I'm really sorry to read your post. I'm sure all of us with an incurable prognosis have spent some time reflecting on how they will feel when they receive this news but I don't think all the preparation in the world really helps when you are faced with this.

I'm shocked you've been left high and dry by your oncologist and feeling alone dealing with this. I was told I'd be referred to the palliative care team and would be supported plus there would be hospice services I could use to support me and keep me comfortable. It is so important for us to keep a continuity of care and not leave patients feeling unsupported.

I do hope you can get the support you need.

Sending love xxx Annie

Hollie123 profile image
Hollie123

Hi,i just like to say don't give up.you have done so well.i am in my 3 rd year with oc and think its so encouraging to hear you done so well. Like the last lady said there are lots of trials in the royal marsdon. You need your onc to refer you. Im on a maintenance drug ...parb inhibitor.maybe worth you having a look on cancer research website which will give you all the criteria for acceptance. I travel from wales and the drug company help with expences. Good luck and keep us informed how you get on. Terrie xxx

jeanv profile image
jeanv

I am so sorry to hear your news and I know exactly how you are feeling. Over three years ago I was told by my oncologist that there was nothing more they could do for me and was sent home to be put on pallative care. However, like you I am a fighter and told him I was not giving in and asked about trials. I was referred to the local cancer centre and was fortunate enough to be put on a trial of an inhibitor. This has worked for me and feel very lucky. Unfortunately two weeks ago after a scan was told that the cancer had spread. I was then referred to another oncologist who has offered to put me on carbaplatin to see if it works. Please speak to your specialist nurse about trials etc and get the oncologist to refer you. I have had over three extra years after originally been told their was nothing for me so keep fighting your corner. Love Jean

Alex53 profile image
Alex53

I don't know what to say so just sending love and hugs so you know you're not alone. Xxx

Marianna profile image
Marianna

My prayers are with you. There are miracles around. I hope one has your name on it. Love and hugs. Xxx

Don't give up, keep fighting and keep shouting till you are heard. There must be someone out there to help you. Big ((hugs)) xx

annieH1 profile image
annieH1

Hi Kali,sending you a big tight hug,and my strength.You have a positive attitude and a fighting spirit ,and I know many a time we all want to throw in the towel and give up the fight ,even for just a little while.An Onc here in Ireland has stated that in conjunction with Hospice care and working with a M/D team ,it's been proven that it can add on even an exra 6-12mts to life.Many people think Hospice is a place to die when it's in fact a place to go to Live.No person no matter what their specialist field can say you've X mts to live.I could get knocked down crossing the road tomorrow and be killed,what would the doctor say to my hubby when asked,"you said she had 6mts to live but she died within 3",I'm sure the Dr would say,I'm sorry for your loss but I don't take outside factors that may influence my prognosis into account,in other words,there are many factors that are involved in prolonging our Own Luves,not just the medical side.

You have a great support of the women here in this room.You have great support from family and friends.Never be afraid to voice your fears.Look for 2nd opinion,trials etc,but don't become to enmeshed with looking as it might wear you down,

Again hugs from across the water,in overcast but dry Cork ,Ireland.x x x

moominkat profile image
moominkat

Hi Kalibana, so devastating to be given this news, I'm sorry. I often wonder what I'll do the day I'm told that's it, no more treatment will be offered. I know it's coming.

It's a cliche, but as has been said already, please don't give up unless or until you are ready to. So many times I've been told half the battle is your inner strength and determination. Prove them wrong. Speak to the Macmillan nurses for help and guidance and if you've the energy and desire, push your oncologist for a second opinion and info on trials.

I do hope they didn't just drop you, that would be dreadful.

And of course, be kind to yourself.

Siouxzie profile image
Siouxzie

Hi, I'm in a similar position to yourself, though its taken just over a year from diagnosis in June 2014 to get to the " we've run out of chemo" stage. I'm 53 and was hoping treatment would buy me more time than it has. I guess no time is ever enough, I was hoping to at least see my youngest through 6th form. My doctor hasn't given me a timescale and I don't think he will, he's looking for a trial for me and I am waiting to hear. But I am preparing for the fact that I have limited time left and it is scary, I feel for you x

lesleysage profile image
lesleysage

Hello,

Like the others, I'd try talking to Ovacome and Macmillan nurses, Cancer Research helpline(?) and keep knocking at doors for inclusion in trials; I am heartened by what others are saying they have managed to be included in.

I am four years since Stage 3c clear cell carcinoma OC diagnosis and have found Mindfulness practice (did an online course, Be Mindful Online) a help to notice my 'inner weather patterns' of emotions and hopes; helped me nourish the positive aspects to balance the sadness, distress, joy and love of life and grief. Bangor University Centre for Mindfulness are doing work on the value of Mindfulness in Life threatening diseases. It cannot cure or buy time like the ops and chemos can but the practice helps me face the 'now' with more calmness and kindness to myself.

Warmest of wishes. Lesley

Lovis profile image
Lovis

Hello. Don't give up. How many courses of chemo have you had? Where is the cancer now; is it on the peritoneum and is it in any organs?

Do seek out trials. This may involve travelling however. Have you heard about Total Parenteral Nutrition where you are fed directly into your blood stream? According to where your's is it could keep you going for longer. Get a second opinion.

Lovis xx

LesleyGreengran profile image
LesleyGreengran

Sorry to hear that, and when you've been fighting for so long. Have you really tried everything ? Your situation does sound frightening I hope you have plenty of support to help you through this next stage of life. We'll all be there one day and my thoughts are with you today, hearing what you've said.

totty profile image
totty

There really is no reply to your news, I am sorry it has come to this, all I can say is live tje life you have left, stay positive and I hope a trial or some answer will be tjere for you. Thinking of you xxx

Jo-Bo profile image
Jo-Bo

Dear Kali I am so sorry to hear your news. I wish I could do something to make it better for you. The other ladies have given lots of advice about support and trials which I won't repeat. However, you are not alone, there are a lots of us here sharing your journey. Stay strong. Jo xxx

Dee_oz profile image
Dee_oz

So sorry to hear your news. You are not alone though- better than anyone else, the women here are fabulously supportive, and do speak with the Ovacome nurses. keep talking to us all xxx

airfemale profile image
airfemale

I also offer my support to you. We probably all face this news sometime and I hope that I can fight as hard as you have. My good thoughts go out to you. As my wonderful surgeon said to me, each one of us is unique and no one knows what really is the outcome. He told me that cancer is mostly about our mental attitude and you must not let yourself be drawn into the bad side of things. I know it is hard but the other ladies are so right when they say look for something more. Get yourself among the people who mean the most to you. I admire your strength. My very best wishes to you.

IrishMollyO profile image
IrishMollyO

Hi Kali. I cannot possibly advise you any better than all those wonderful women who have replied to you. I can only promise my prayers as the prayers of others have kept me going through the dark times. That and training myself to live in the now which I learned by going to a local Cancer support group. The other women had lots of good hopeful suggestions which I pray will shine a light of hope for you. Meanwhile I will join with the others in a big group hug.

XXX

nursenan profile image
nursenan

Listen to you...not them. Doctors have no right to say that as far as I'm concerned. We've been listening to guided imagery (B. Naparstak) and believe in the power of the mind. Try some natural alternatives and believe in yourself. Have hope! doctors are not God (or whatever higher power you have).

ingrid48 profile image
ingrid48

Hi,

Only God knows when our time is up.

I had cancer 4 times since i was 40. Each time it was stage 4 terminal 6 mo maybe..left..i told her I'm too busy..and have too much to do..i don't have time to go to heaven now..stiil have stuff unfinished..writing my second book..

I'm 67..possible recent reoccurence ..doc. doesn't tell me anymore how much i have left..we both laugh about it..keep up your spirit and will to live..

Ingrid

in reply to ingrid48

Well said Ingrid and im so happy for you xxx

Travy profile image
Travy in reply to ingrid48

That's amazing Ingrid. What a great attitude to take and thank you for sharing it with us all so that we may all keep positive and never give up. May you have at least another 27+ years !!!

God bless

Hi sorry you've been told this dreadful news but there are new treatments coming out all the time so DONT GIVE UP miracles do happen. I disagree with the Drs who hand out this information after all it is our Heavenly Father who decides when and where and why we leave this earthly plain. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers as I do for all our ovacome members.Keep up the fighting spirit God Bless and love and big hugs Lynn xx

fluffycloud profile image
fluffycloud

just wanted to send you a virtual hug, Take care Pam x

ingrid48 profile image
ingrid48

THANK u all.

Forgot to mention..KALE KALE AND MORE KALE..also spinach, cumin, turmeric..lots of salads product, walnut, almonds..hopefully u all like them..

And prayers.

Have another scan tomorrow..I'll keep u posted

judyved-US profile image
judyved-US

Hi Kali.....I am so sorry to hear your news, but the notes from all the other lovely ladies on this forum should offer you,and all of us, a lot of encouragement. I will keep you in my prayers, and I send you hugs from the US. Best to you.....Judy

Beth25 profile image
Beth25

I was so sorry to read your news and can only echo some of the advice, and all of the warm wishes, that others have already expressed. It's hard to imagine how you feel now - I think the only times I've felt anything similar were on first diagnosis and first recurrence when I felt that mortality had walked into the room and forced me to acknowledge that it was real. Since then I've continued to be inspired by women like you who have turned the statistics on their heads time and again. I so hope it happens for you this time. As others have already suggested, do ask for a second opinion, which may result in further options - as I understand it there are other treatments that can be offered when chemo isn't possible. There should also be further palliative support available to you, and while you're dealing with the really hard stuff, perhaps enlisting the help of a friend to insist on more support than your doctor has offered so far might be a help. Wishing you strength and peace of mind.

Beth x

thesilent1 profile image
thesilent1

I'm so sorry you've been told this. You have done so well this far and as you're a fighter, I have no doubt you will continue to do so. You're not ready to give up yet. Look into trials as the other ladies have said. This disease is so hard on us all. Positive mental attitude helps in my opinion too and you definitely seem to have that. We're here to support you. Good luck. Ann xo

Marla3 profile image
Marla3

I am so sorry, but the doctors don't have the last word...GOD does. Our bodies have the ability to take care of itself. Start juicing....put 6 carrots, 6. Organic celery sticks, fresh piece of ginger, fresh piece of turmeric ...make sure everything is organic. Make green drinks with kale, chard, broccoli anything green and add blue berries, strawberries .... Make your own Vitamin C (there are many YouTube videos--Liposomal encapsulated vitamin C.....Very inexpensive to make) but very powerful, try coffee enemas (also many YouTube videos on instructions. Follow Chris Wark who was diagnoised with stage 3 colon cancer....he will tell you what he did and many other cancer patients, that have survived this terrible illness. Follow him and Ty Bollinger on YouTube . Wish you the best, I'll keep you in my prayers.

AnnieMae profile image
AnnieMae

Hi Kalibana

So shocked to read your message. As others have said, I can't understand how your Onc can leave you feeling so isolated. It is something at the back of all our minds as we keep battling this awful disease. Don't give up fighting. I hope you can find a way forward and you can get the support and advise you need.

Thinking of you

Love

Annette xxx

I was dianosed last June had operation to remove tumour but surgeon only remove some as I have had neurophenia since 2006 and surgery was limited because of infection, but I went through chemo and I have had seventeen cycles of avastin. Next month will be my last one then a scan.i felt on my own until now but I always live in hope and fight on I have just booked my fifth holiday this year I try and keep busy when I not so tired last year I did not think I make my 60th but I had a wig party everyone wore wigs and I went as a punk rocker with piercings and bald head hope every thing goes we'll for you and prove them wrong

TrishLey profile image
TrishLey

I agree with all the ladies here. Don't give up. Your team are there to work for you. If they are not doing there Job it is worth getting a second opinion. You are not alone we are here with you xxxx Trish

seashells1925 profile image
seashells1925

Do not give up! My mother was given 6 months to live from breast cancer in 1969. Then she was given an experimental surgery and lived for 35 more years. Try to get in trials. See what is available for Experimental treatments. I hope you find something that works for you.

KaliBana profile image
KaliBana

I want to thank you ALL for the kindness and support... bless you all !!

just a quick update.. my lungs filled with fluid and I went for a tap... and one of my lungs collapsed.. i was in the hospital for 9 days but home now, they placed a chest tube in me and I feel so much better now that I can breath :) I will never complain about pain again.. so thankful to still be here and not feeling like im drowning..

and after all that hospital food, I will never complain about my mom's cooking ever again. :) :)

still upset that my oncologist gave up on me.... but, I will show her, and everybody else just how strong i can be. If I can teach my boys anything-- it will be to fight for whats important. life is pretty darned important. so is the love and support and wonderful people I have met on this journey... Thanks again xox <3

airfemale profile image
airfemale

Wow. You are amazing I just reread this particular thread and came on your update. I am so glad you are keeping us posted on your journey. God!!!! I am sorry I used that word. Journey has been said so many times I want to scream. I just hope that you are proving everyone wrong. Live well and happy. I am sending you my best thoughts and hugs from across the world. X Sharon

KaliBana profile image
KaliBana

Hello All You beautiful supportive wonderful people...

The people from Hospice came to where i live yesterday.. I guess my old doctor contacted them.. I didnt know anything about the program. They informed me that they could come and take care of me for these last few months of my life... blah blah blah....

I am sure it is a wonderful program.. and I am sure They have helped many many people... but I am afraid they caught me off guard, and I did NOT handle that surprise visit very well...

I already knew my doctors have lost all hope.... but I havent . not yet... I thought I was actually fighting and doing very well on my own...

The visit upset me greatly. and I asked them to leave... I told them I'm not ready to Die , but when I am, I would be sure to give them a call...

I feel bad now... I am not a rude person... I am a person who focuses on staying positive and that visit has let the air out of my bubble - so to speak... I didnt sleep last night and am finding myself down and outta sorts today...

I thought I could vent to You all, maybe somebody would tell me to stop feeling sorry for myself and get my tail back on tract.

Thanks for listing... love, hugs, and smiles :) :) :) xox

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