New Ovarian Cancer Patient

[Newquilter66]

Just diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Don’t know what stage. Was told I will have surgery. Waiting for an appointment with gynecologist oncology surgeon for exam and surgery schedule. Anxious, scared and dreading all procedures.

[Erebuni]

Hi Newquilter66 ,my name is Emma I am from Chicago.I have cancer 2017 ,have 2 surgery 1 recurring and doing well.Now I am on Avastin still ok.Darling don’t be scared you can do this.I was like you but reading all this lady’s notes I get stronger.Now your time be strong.Wish you all the best.🥰

[Newquilter66 in reply to Erebuni]

Hi. My name is Linda. Thanks for the words of encouragement. I’m trying to remain strong, but the not knowing is what gets to me. I just want to have my surgery and see what stage I’m in and the treatment I’m going to have afterwards.

[mizpurple]

My best advice to you is not to get too far ahead of yourself. The oncologist won't know exactly what's going on inside until they are doing the operation, and what they find will help them determine a course of treatment for you. Anyone would be scared, that's only reasonable, so I won't tell you not to be. But most of us here have been through surgery (and often chemo or other therapies) and are here to tell you - it's not a walk in the park but it's doable. You can do this. Come back and ask us any questions that you need to. Wishing you all the best! Deb in Colorado

[Newquilter66 in reply to mizpurple]

I have lots of family and friends for support which helps. Wishing you well, also. Linda in Arkansas.

[Here2Day]

I so understand. I was dx'd in Sept 2018, surgery Oct 2018 - Stage 3b. It was the most frightening experience of my life. But somehow we find the strength and courage to face each challenge as it comes. Knowledge is power. And like you said, once your gyn/onc knows what he/she is dealing with, more answers and a clear direction will come. The most important thing to remember is that so many of us are here and have survived. And we can help you through. The best thing you did was reach out. We are here for you. Please keep us posted.

[Newquilter66 in reply to Here2Day]

Thanks for your advice.

[Bahamas22]

It’s ok to be scared and have questions. But be hopeful. Very hopeful that if there is an issue that’s it’s caught early. I have stage 3C OC since April 2016. I’ve been on chemo ever since. One time in remission for 9 months So many options. Just know this is my advice and I’m not a professional. But please ask them if they are going to do A hysterectomy for them to do a full one. Both ovaries both fallopian to your uterus all of it. No need to have any of it if they are taking some. If let there it will lead to future problems . We will be praying fir you 🙏🏼🙏🏼 Stay strong. And positive. Attitude goes a long way. A never giving up one 💙

[Newquilter66 in reply to Bahamas22]

Thank you for your prayers and advice. I had a hysterectomy in 1996, but my ovaries were left. I go from being optimistic to being pessimistic. My husband and rest of family members all say I’m going to beat this. Am currently waiting on approval for insurance approval for hospital that does surgery. They are not in my network.

[Newquilter66 in reply to Bahamas22]

Had surgery on September 3rd. Stage 3B. Follow up appointment on September 18th to discuss findings and further treatment. Rough few days after surgery, but doing much better now. Lots of help and support from family. Just going to take it one day at a time and God’s grace. Prayers that you’re doing well.

Linda in Arkansas.

[Ruebacelle]

Hello. Surgery is good followed by cbemo. Welcome to the club and stay strong

[Newquilter66 in reply to Ruebacelle]

Thanks. Surgery done. Now on to other options and treatment.

[Greytmom]

Hi, I know it sounds cliche but please try and relax and take it one day at a time, one hour at a time, whatever is needed. unfortunately I didn't have these kinds of resources when I was diagnosed in December of 2014 or I would have had an easier initial frontline experience. Try not to stress over the diagnosis numbers, the disease doesn't understand the numbers or care. It does what it wants. I never expected to live past my first year and here I am 6 years later. Getting this stress / fear under control I found to be half the battle. If you have an integrative medicine department through your treatment facility try to look into that. I go to the Disney Cancer Center and they offer nutrition, massage, Qigong, reiki, meditation, and support groups. I didn't know what most of the things were when I first went but now they are a daily support in my life. Hang in there, and try to remember to find something to smile about everyday. It may not be the easiest thing to deal with but it's doable and you can get through this.

[Newquilter66 in reply to Greytmom]

Thanks for the encouragement. It’s really appreciated.

[Ruebacelle in reply to Greytmom]

So true reiki massages dog and cat books walks sleep...also i do light fast 24hrs before and 24 hours after chemo. It really works eliminates side effects gives you lots of energy clears the mind

[Wicomico]

I just joined this group fairly recently. You will find tons of support here! I am sorry for what you are going through. Trust me, you will find a way to deal with it...you will find strength or stubbornness or drive that you never knew you had. But it will absolutely be a crazy roller coaster emotionally, so try to accept that you will be up one day and not the next. Eventually you will figure out how best YOU can smooth the highs and lows so that it is less crazy. There will still be ups and downs, but in between you will discover that you can continue to lead your life as you want. By doing that, you will have the emotional strength to get through the hard parts. (Of course, it is always in the back of your mind...better there than the front! ) And do NOT read too much on the internet haha... I went crazy online when I was first diagnosed. I Fairly quickly learned that I needed to only look up specific facts....no "What is the life expectancy...." stuff!!!! As you will see on here, so many women are defying the statistics! Very best to you....

Sue

[Supermary]

Hi

Have you had a PETSCAN?

They were able to determine around what stage I am based on the PETSCAN

It helped the surgeon and the team at Memorial Sloane Kettering determine the course of action which was in my case chemo surgery then chemo

It’s normal to be afraid of the unknown

I know I was but your family is 100% right you will conquer and it will be ok

[Newquilter66 in reply to Supermary]

Thanks for the info. I appreciate any I can get.