Please Help! I'm 81 Wth New Post-Op Dx Of Ovarian Cancer Stage 3C-Any Advice?

I am 81 years of age and have just had a 6 hour operation for removal of ovarian cancer tumors.
My doctor is recommending a course of Taxol and Carboplatin. I'm trying to decide and need input on effectiveness and quality of life while on chemo. My CA-125 was 530 prior to surgery.
Of course, my family wants the chemo, but any advice would be most appreciated and welcome.

Thank you,
J.M.

Hi Jewell,
So sorry for you and your diagnosis. I also am a cancer patient and in a sort of remission. I can only let you know how I feel about chemo and then you decide. Last November, the oncologist told me that my cancer was metastizising and they wanted me to start chemo immediately I did not want any chemo and asked the doctor what my prognosis was if I refused. He said "only months". I am not a strong believer in chemo. I took chemo twice for 6 months at a time and each time the cancer came back fast and furious. I refused chemo and I am still alive and doing well. Two friends of mine who took the chemo at about the same time frame as me with same kind of cancer are both now dead. I don't know how long I have but I truly believe 100% from my heart that if I would have taken the chemo last year, I would not be alive today. Chemo is very hard on your body and makes a person deathly ill. I would not wish that on anyone. I am 57 yrs old. At 81 yrs old, chemo would definetely be a big NO. You have lived a good, long life and just eat well, trust your body, forget the chemo and have faith and PRAY. Good luck to you!

Four years ago I had surgery for ovarian masses and came out with a diagnosis of stage 3C ovarian cancer. Before surgery my CA-125 was 124. After surgery it was 15. I did 6 rounds of chemo with taxol and carboplatin and did well on it. There was some nausea and diarrhea but not a lot. I have been healthy ever since then. At the time I was 43 years old and otherwise healthy. At 81? I am not at all sure that I would go through it. I rather doubt that you'd do as well as I did being much younger. Of course it is your final decision. You might well have no big problems with it. I wish you the best whatever you decide to do or not do.
J.

Dear Jewel,
First of all, good for you for asking questions before making a decision regarding chemo.
But, consider your sources carefully. Evidently you did great coming out of 6 hours of surgery; you must be physically strong for that! That is a big consideration in deciding on chemotherapy. Your Oncologist, I don't think, would make the recommendation for chemo if he/she didn't think you could handle it. Chronological age means little.

Second, not all chemotherapy is the same; some protocols are more easily tolerated than others, and what worked or didn't work on one person, doesn't necessarily mean it will or won't on you. The Oncologist's Nurse Educator is a great resource for any questions you may have. Also, www.Oncolink.com has great information on Ovarian Cancer, its diagnosis, and treatment.

Best Wishes to you and your Family,
ACB

Having had ovarian cancer stage 3C, I certainly feel for what you are going through. I can only say (which may be out of line) that if my 83 year old mom faced this, I would certainly have her do the chemo. Keep in mind, everyone is different, will respond with different side effects, and age is a factor to some degree. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and all of us need to make our own choices. None are right or wrong. I can only express to you, that anyone who would give you advise as to not do chemo. is not looking out for your best interests. Maybe for her, but not knowing you, certainly not for you. Please consult doctors and get more opinions. b-4 you decide anything. I am 56 years old, had my surgery in April, did 9 rounds of taxol and carbo and had virtually no side effects. I felt fine, except for some tiredness, and some neuropothy. Basically I actualy felt better than I had in years. Do not be afraid. Do not make a hastey decision. If you don't want to continue chemo, you can always change your mind. Please at least try it. I wish you well.
Barb F.
Chicago, Il.
No evidence of disease 11/30/04

Jewel, I also am a Stage 3C survivor and I strongly recommend chemo. I also had 6 rounds of carboplatin and taxol. Did very well for four years and then had many mets. Had a very, very major surgery then had 12 rounds of just taxol and have just completed that. The side effects aren't fun, but they are certainly and absolutely tolerable for anyone with a good attitude and anyone who wants to press on and live! That's my opinion. May God bless each of you (and me!) - janez (3c in 02/1999 with many mets in 02/2003)

Dear Jo Etta:

Thank you for writing. My doctor has said that my age would not be a major factor as I am very physically fit. It seems that you did not have side effects that were severely debilitating.
I am so glad you are doing well and that you took the time to write. Thank you again,
J.

Dear Anita:

Thank you so much for writing. I truly appreciate the referrals. I am trying to gather as much information as I can. I am going to go forth with the chemo and see how I do. You were so kind to respond,
J.

Dear Barbara:

Thank you so much for writing! I am going to go forth for at least the first round and see how I do. Your words were very helpful. I am so happy to see you are doing well. Your encouragement is very much appreciated.
J.

Dear Barbara:

Thank you so much for writing! I am going to go forth for at least the first round and see how I do. Your words were very helpful. I am so happy to see you are doing well. Your encouragement is very much appreciated.
J.