Living with secondary breast cancer
OfflineHi
I post on two other breast cancer sites and this is my first one on here so it's taking me a bit of a while to work things out!
I was first diagnosed at the age of 40 in 1995 and then diagnosed with mets in 2004 to the liver and spine.
It's been a rollercoaster of emotions during that time, especially nearly 2 years ago when I was told that my liver was beginning to stop working and needed to put my affairs in order. I was extremely ill at that time, very jaundiced, had ascites, not eating, etc. etc.
My oncologist though is absolutely brilliant and she offered me the lifeline of taking Xeloda (couldn't have I.V. chemo at that time as my liver couldn't cope with it). I've now been on it since September 2006 non stop and have tolerated it extremely well which I know isn't the case for everyone especially the hand and foot symptoms.
My son was nearly 7 when I was first diagnosed and can't remember life pre cancer. He'll be 21 later this year and I really didn't think that I'd see him celebrate his 18th.
My next 'goal' is to see him graduate from uni next year and then see him get a job, married, children etc (we can all dream!).
I very active with our cancer network group, set up our support group in 1997 and am currently part of a working party on breathlessness in our area. For me, this is what keeps me going, plus the support I receive from my husband, son and loads of really special friends (I have no family near me as they all live 'up north').
Sorry it's been a longish post!
Sheena
Couldn't leave you alone on here, so I just wanted to say congratulations for being a tough 'un! Yes, I agree that keeping involved in things and not giving up is part of the mental battle. I haven't heard of this drug, but it's marvellous that it is carrying you along especially as things looked so bleak. Well done to your lovely oncologist! xxx Penny
Penny
Hi there - nice to see you back! I was wondering how you are doing - busy I see!! My scan showed some response the chemo so am continuing with another 4 cycles. I will keep Xeloda in mind to tell my oncol about if i need further treatment. Hope we can chat again soon, Jools x x x
Hi Jools
Came back from our holiday on 20 July but am off again on 16th August for 2 weeks and can't wait!
Really pleased to hear that your scan showed some response to the chemo - fingers crossed that it continues!
I've been busy and although I've been on the forums I've not posted that much. Have an appointment next month for the results of my genetic testing so trying to keep an open mind on that (more about the implications for my son, my brother, his kids, etc. etc.)
Take care.
xxx
Sheena