Another recurrence

[MaryRay]

Hey all. This is my first post. But it is the first time in this cancer journey of mine where I am scared. i was originally diagnosed in 2015. It took 5 months to get the diagnosis; the doctors insisted I had acid reflux or gall bladder issues. I kept on insisting I did not. They even told me the mass I felt in my lower abdomen was nothing to worry about. It was stage IIIc and I had surgery - debulking, hysterectomy, etc. Then 6 rounds of chemo taxol, carbo, and a third I can’t remember. I was in remission for almost 2years. I went through another 6 rounds of chemo. In May 2018 I started Lynparza. I had severe side effects of nausea snd fatigue. They halved my dosage and I was still so sick I could barely get out of bed. I stopped it and started Rubraca. That was better but after taking it for four weeks I started getting really sick again. I needed to heal from the PARP inhibitors for a few weeks. I was going to start radiation but the tumor grew and perforated my colon. I had to have surgery November 2018. In January 2019 a CT scan showed there was no cancer. Now it is back (only 3 months). After the PARP inhibitors debacle my doctors did not have much to offer - they gave me a pamphlet about hospice. I think this is scaring me mostly because at the age of 62 I have finally figured out what I want to do when I grow up. I have not yet met with my oncologist but I have an idea they will still not have a lot to offer at this point. Any suggestions on any kind of treatment options would be great. Thanks.

[Hidden]

Oh Mary Ray, I'm so sorry to hear that your cancer has recurred so quickly. I can't offer any medical suggestions or experience but know there are other women here who have walked through similar storms and have come out stronger for it. I hop the same for you.

I do strongly suggest you get a second opinion about your options as it sounds like your doctor is out of ideas, whereas another might have ideas for treatments not yet tried. It does not sound like you are ready for his "hospice" recommendation.

You have fought hard to get to this point (you knew the first diagnosis you received about your pain was wrong; this doctor's "no more treatment" suggestion may be just as wrong) and whatever comes next, know that you have the strength and fortitude to deal with it in the best way possible. And if/when you need a little extra to get through the day, know that we are here. Sending you hope, strength and faith.

[MaryRay in reply to Hidden]

Thank you. I did go for a second opinion and they had nothing different to offer. I am looking for a third opinion.

[Lind58]

I would go for a second, third and fourth opinion if possible. Wishing you only the best, and I hope you can find an effective treatment!

[Here2Day]

I am so sorry you've hit this difficult point in your journey. I belong to several online support groups and one in-person support group, and I hear all the time about how many options there are out there -- from Nutritional approaches, to Trials, to other maintenance meds... Please keep checking with others. Go to the "best" cancer center in your area, or fly to one if you need to and can afford it. You are worth the extra money and effort.

It may also help to post your situation on other message boards. You never know if someone out there has had your situation and is managing to hold onto hope and options. A few of the ones I follow are: "Ovarian Cancer Support Group" and "Teal Tales." Both are on Facebook, and there are MANY women posting frequently.

Just bc they gave you that pamphlet, doesn't mean it's your time. Miracles happen every day. Why not for you? xo

[Archeveritas]

Hi Mary. So sorry to hear what is happening. Doctors also misdiagnosed me. Ihad the same approach as you. Chemo, radiation, and surgery. I finished with chemo Nov. 2018. My scans have been good and I'm not on any Parp's. My friend who had stage 4 stomach cancer has had positive results with taking curcumin. You could do some research on it. It doesn't hurt to gather information but always check with your gyneonc before trying something. Please keep in touch and my prayers are being sent with positive vibes!

[DocIt]

I have read many good reviews from this cancer clinic in Mexico.

It is called C.H.I.P.S.A. Please look it up and research their reviews. I wish I know my options when my sister was ill.