prognosis-metastasestospinefrombreastcancer

Worried Mom · Guest

[img] My daughter diagnosed with lobular carcinoma. Given chemo (4) and had surgery: both breasts, ovaries, uterus removed. Cancer cells found in all areas along with lymph node involvement. Latest tests show metastases to the spine ( 2 places). For now, no chemo, but will treat with hormome therapy: Femara, one a day; Zometa IV once a month at clinic and Zoloft for other treatment. Is this terminal according to past experience?[/img]

Tracey · Guest

Dear Worried Mom,
I'm sorry to hear about your daughter's trouble. At least it sounds like she is receiving aggressive care. I think that all breast cancer that metastasizes eventually is terminal, but the real issue is one of time. There are so many medications being used today that many women are keeping their disease in remission or stable for years and years. You should go to the www.bcmets.org website, which is dedicated to women whose breast cancer has metastasized. The women who belong to that list are so knowledgeable. Many of them have been living with metastasis to the bones for over ten years. I do not have this myself so I cannot speak from my own experience, but I am hopeful that your daughter will find a medication that works well for her and keeps her disease at bay for a long, long time. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and her.

leo · Site Admin Joined: 23 Sep 2004 Posts: 1574

Hello

Thanks for sharing your story with us. I feel sorry for your daughter. I have one view on things that may be helpful.

It is so hard to define what is terminal disease. Is it 6 weeks ? 6 months ? 6 years ? In a sense we are all slowly dying. 6 months to an 80 year-old person might not be terminal, actually this person may die of natural causes before the disease kills him/her. Another consideration is the functional status of the patient. Is she able to do her daily activities ? Can she take care of herself without assistance ? Is her pain (if any) well controlled ?

That's why I think it is so difficult to say if this is terminal or not. Maybe someone that is paralyzed for 6 years is deemed terminal, but for that person that quality of life is acceptable. People have an amazing ability, which is to adapt to new conditions. Some people adapt better and faster than others.

So you and your daughter should focus on extension of life that is acceptable to her. Your doctor is providing adequate treatment, and if you are satisfied with it, try to work with him in the areas that are not so well.

If there's anything I can help you with, I'll be here.

regards,
Leo
_________________
Leonardo F - Webmaster Cancer Forums
Disclaimer: this information is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice.

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