On 6/13/2009 son of a great mom wrote:
My mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer less then a month ago. After visiting several dr.'s we are trying to decide on several factors regarding treatment. We are considering the gemzar plus traveca. One of the dr. suggested gemzar plus xeloda and the other gemzar by itself. Any ideas? Why is traveca still used in most trails?
Other questions... What is a considered a good diet for her? What types of alternative medicine can we incorporate in her treatment? Who are some of the best dr. in northen california?
How can we increase her appetite?
Thanks for your time and many blessings to all of you participating in the battle against pancreatic cancer.
thanks..
My husband was on Tarceva, Gemzar, and radiation. Initially. then on tarceva alone for several months. I believe they do not know how successful Tarceva is but are getting some results. If one can tolerate the side effects, it may be a life extender. My husband developed a rash but was able to tolerate it. He did stop after using it for about 9-10 months . He developed ascites but not necessarity because of the Tarceva.. He was Stage 3/4 and his life has been extended by the chemo.Diet-- We have tried many things.Lots of infor about eating for cancer. The Cancer Project(www.cancerproject.org) was a source we used for a while. We watched fat content. His diet continues to change and basically whatever he can tolerate. There is info from PANCAM about diet and increasing it. I am in Michigan and do not know any cancer doctors in California. I do recommend the Cancer Treatrment Centers Of America. There may be one in California. They would be good for alternative treatment. I also firmly believe in the power of prayer. His doctors are baffled that he is living. (my husband was not a candidate for surgery.He has two stents,One is in the common bile duct and the other in the duodenum He also has a biliary drain since March. May God bless you in this journey with your mom.
LM