New Stage 4

My wife was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer four days ago.  She is 44 (45 in a couple of week, three kids).  PET Scan reveals it has spread to her pelvic area, spine, lymph node next to her liver and near her thyroid.  If there is a positive side to this, current imaging did not show cancer in major organs.  Estrogin receptors are positive.  The doctor (highly recommended in my town) started her on Tamoxifen once per day with Zomedia once per month.  We will be getting a biopsy of her spine area in a couple of weeks.

My knowledge is limited at this point.  My instinct is to use the quickest and strongest means to stop the growth of the disease.  That would lead more to Chemo and possibly surgery.  Yet the doctor has explained that this cancer cannot be cured, but treated and controlled.  Hormonal Therapy, while not as quick as Chemo, is just as effective (per our doctor) and if we used a scorched earth plan and used all types of treatments (surgery to remove breast, Chemo, radiation), my wife would still have cancer in her body.  In her opinion, the better course is to use the Hormonal Therapy (assuming it works) and use the others when necessary.  This was supported by a second oncologist (family member - at age 8 she was the smartest person I knew and, 36 years later, remains that way after stints that include Johns Hopkins and Memorial Sloan Kettering). Yet it is counter-intuitive to me if we don't use the most aggressive treatment to get rid of what we can and limit the spread any further. It is also frustrating feeling that we are not being proactive enough. But two highly respected doctors say this is the best course to take.

Am I completely off the mark?

Hello I am 41 and also have stage 4 breast cancer. Mine was in the pelvic, back, rib and one lymph node near lung. I went on femera, zometa and a shot called soemthing lupron. Sorry not sure of the whole name.I was diagnosed in feb of 06. By april of 06 I was in remission and still am. I was told this was the best course of action as of now. If the cancer comes back and not aggresive there are more hormonal treatments. If it is aggressive the off to chemo I go. I have taken tamoxien in the past but it stopped working. I swear by the femera. It does have side effects, I have alot of pain in my joints. But not all have this.  I have been told that the average time femera works is 18-24 months. I will be hitting the 24 months in Feb 08. I have doc appt every 3 months. Blood woork and exam on one then pet scan on the next. Just a little encouraging news. My doc has a sister that has been in remission for 10 years now and still doing great. Hers had spread to bone and lungs. So dont give up!!  Im hearing more and more how woman can live with cancer. I would love to hear from someone that is a long time survivor of stage 4. Please post and give us hope. Good luck . But it sounds to me like you are getting great care.

I know of someone who was diagnosed stage 4 about 14+ years ago.  She, however, found a clinic up in NY, (we live in NJ) and went completely natural.  Do not know her exact regimen but obviously it has worked.  Also just read about a local women who was told she had 6 months to live 5 years ago and is now another 5 years beyond that, who is also doing an alternative treatment in cleansing the body which includes supplements and a special diet etc.  The paper noted she has over 300 followers she has helped.  Unfortunately, I can't find the article someone recently gave me.  God has given us powers of healing but we must ask Him for His guidance.  I know there are others out there.  Keep the faith and be proactive in you care.

Thank you for sharing your experience.  We will be vigilant in seeking the best care for my wife.  Yet it is heartwarming to hear that you have had similar treatment with success.  Thanks.

Your wife could also get a second opinion if she is not entirely satisfied with the response of her oncologyst/physician.  It is good to know the cancer is not in any major organs.   I have heard of many stage IV women living with cancer for many years.  There are so many drugs out there that we can be put on to keep the cancer at bay.