Mum 72 just been diagnosed

[Beverleyt]

Hi everyone, I’ve found this forum whilst researching ovarian cancer as my mum 72 has just been diagnosed with it. They say from the scans it doesn’t look like it has spread but I’m so scared because of her age. Is anyone on here older?

[Everhope]

I was the same age as your mum when I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer almost 18 months ago. I was absolutely numb with fear & worry which I suspect is natural. I had a full radical hysterectomy, followed three weeks later by six months chemotherapy at three weekly intervals. None of this was nearly as bad as I feared and apart from first 2 weeks after my surgery I managed alone in my home without any help. Deep down once I got over the initial shock of my diagnosis I was relieved that the medics were doing something about treating me. I also had the support of a wonderful daughter, just be there for her and take one day at a time. Good luck to you & your mum.

[Beverleyt in reply to Everhope]

Thank you so much for your replies. She had a hysterectomy in her 30s but they left her ovaries so will probably just take them out along with lymph nodes. She started feeling breathless after she had a knee replacement nearly 2 years ago and they couldn’t find why then the pain has just got worse over time, thinking it’s gall bladder pain or IBS.

Coming on here does make me feel better seeing you all getting on with it like warriors!

The waiting for the next step is the worst!

[JanePW1965 in reply to Beverleyt]

Hello Beverley. My mum was 78 when diagnosed in Dec 2013 - Grade 3 High Serous. (Christmas Eve!! But she had had an ultrasound scan which had picked up masses on both ovaries in Oct or Nov - can't quite remember). She had Carbo/Taxol either side of the debulking surgery. After she'd finished the chemo she went for her first three month check in the Oct 2014 and everything looked fine. I was with her. (Live over 200 miles away). But in Jan 2015, two days before mine and my twin brother's 50th birthday, she received the news of a recurrence. Such a shock. Anyway, she had six Caelyx. Part way through her hands became really cracked so the dose was reduced by 20%. She was pretty steady for around 18 months but then the beast woke up. She had six Carbo/Taxol again, finished in June 2017 and has been in remission ever since with a good quality of life. I'm so grateful to have her around. She will be 85 in October. She's slowing down a bit due to her age but she is amazing and I can't believe what she's been through. So looking forward to seeing her again after this dreaded lockdown. Sending big virtual hugs to you and your mum. XX ❤️

[Solange]

Hello Beverley. Just a quickie as I have to go out. I must just say 'Welcome to the Club' . You'll get a lot of help, reading all the members' letters.

I'm so sorry your Mum has been diagnosed with OvCa. I really feel for you both. I think we're almost traumatised when we first hear the diagnosis. I was diagnosed 14 years ago, just before Christmas and I'm still carrying on with normal life. I'm now 78. The family and I all thought I would be gone in a few months time, when I was first diagnosed - and so did I! I've just finished Chemo for the fifth time so I am a bit tired but luckily - I always get over it fairly well. My husband is a big help to me, I'm very lucky.

I wish your Mum well and hope things won't be as bad as feared.

With love and best wishes, Solange 😊

[Sashay2020]

Hi Beverley. I’m 69 and managed to get through debulking surgery in June last year and finished chemo in November. I have one child, my 35 year-old daughter. I do what I can to stay on the planet for her. A hug or a loving glance from her really helps me cope. I’m sure you will be a great comfort to your mother, too. I was diagnosed stage 3 and am now off chemo. I had a lovely Christmas with my daughter. I can read your love and concern for your mother in your post. I can promise you that the smallest kindness from you will strengthen your mom during treatment. Age can pose its challenges. But we can be tough old birds when we must. Best wishes from Louisiana,

Sashay

[Kwiskwos]

My mother's 72 as well. Though it's her 1st recurrence. The effects of chemo hit her harder this time compared when she was first diagnosed. But with proper support and care, i know she will be able to cope well. Wishing you both the best in this journey.

[claireRoberts76]

Hello... My mum was 70 when diagnosed it’s such a shock I know... mum was diagnosed with ppc grade 3c..... so far so good doing well 19 months later....look after yourself too! It’s not easy but stay strong x

[Ruebacelle]

77

[delia2]

Hi. I was 69 when diagnosed and now 71. Your mum’s age isn’t a big issue. OC is not for the faint hearted but she’ll get through the chemo and surgery and your love and support will be a huge booster! ❤️

[Beverleyt]

Thank you everyone for your reassuring messages. The letter from the gynae to the GP arrived today that says she has a 15cm cyst and CT125 at 248. Had a blood test yesterday so just waiting to hear about meeting the surgeon now x