My Stage 3c Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis

Hi My name is Donna and last year(2011) on January 24 was diagnosed with stage 3c ovarian cancer and I was not sick just very healthy at the time or so I thought. On March 8th had my first chemo treatment and my last on September 23 and my cancer is in remission since August of 2011 to. I also had a total hysterectomy. My hair is growing back like a weed and I am positive that the cancer will not come back for me. I am 41 years old with no cancer history in my family.

Hi , I was just reading your story, I'm 45 and never been sick just found out I have ovarian cancer, surgery June 7, and having a port put in as well . I'm very scared and not a fighter, any words if Wistom?

Hi,

I can't tell you how scared I was after my surgery knowing I was going to have to take chemotherapy.   I was never so scared in my life.   And it's 4 years later and I'm still scared and still taking chemo.   But just know that the chemo today you will be delightfully surprised.  I had taxol/carboplatin and lost my hairs, blah blah blah....was very fatigued days after but my blood was always pretty good except for my hemoglobin.   I often get blood transfusions now because I can't get it to stay up and I also go for Fluid taps on my belly because the fluid build up from the tumor is horrendous.   Plus mine is mucinous so it's very thick and hard to get out.   So please don't drive yourself whacky.   It is scary and you are very normal.   I found a friend next to me on my first day and she is still my angel and very good friend.   I wish you lucik.  God bless you.   Michele

Thank you do much for your story, trying to be strong, all I do is cry, very scared about the surgery . I have to be a fighter , goal is to go back to work in August with still doing chemo . I'm having the same as you did. Scared about my hair and to see if my husband still loves me with out it. Funny how kne day you are fine and the next a life change. Thanks again . Tina

Hi Tina

The surgery for me wasn't what scared me.  Yes I was afraid to hear what stage I was in because my stomach was huge like I was 9 months pregnant.   But once you get over that and hopefully get a port put in for the chemo then you'll be afraid to start that and lose your hair, etc.   Losing myhair was so traumatic for me because I had beautiful thick long hair.  It was part of me.  Once it was gone I just never felt the same.   But that's me.  I wore a hat that I got through the unit in a magazine and they were all so cute.   The chemo itself really isn't that bad.  You'll hate foods that you love and love foods that you never liked.  It's weird.   You'll be very tired and have that metallic taste in your mouth but you can still eat.   Just hang in there.  When is your surgery?   I will be praying for you.  God bless.  Michele

Hi, my surgery is July 7. I'm also having the port put in at the same time. I feel like I'm 2 months preg. Can't wait to lose this fluid. I'm already looking at wraps for my hair . Did your hair grow back yet ? How long did it take? Im very scared of surgery and pain that goes with it , I start chemo first week of July , I here the first time is the hardest , is that true ? It's Nina's nice of you to talk to me , my friends are there for me however they can't answer my questions , I don't want to bother my husband with all this. Thanks Tina

Hang in there, girl. My name is Donna, too, and I was diagnosed with stage 3c ovarian cancer 10 years and 2months ago! Mine has kept returning, I am on my 11th chemo now. S ome of them weren't much fun, but all of them were better than being dead. I was a real cow, and have gradually lost 110 pounds. I lost my taste for red meat and fried or greasy foods, and now eat mostly fresh fruits and vegetables and chicken and fish, plus lots of ice cream and sweets. Why not? The doctors can't figure out why I'm still alive, they told me I'd be lucky to see 5 years. I do take 1000milligrams of turmeric a day, have for 7 years now because of a study. Going on by a Dr. I met at M.D. Anderson of why people in India have a much lower cancer rate than us. Even with a similar diet. He thinks it's because they eat curry every day, and turmeric has something in it that keeps cancer cells from forming the extra blood vessels they need to survive. I don't know about that, but I figured it couldn't hurt, and hear I still am! It costs about $18 a month at the health food store. I think the main thing is to keep busy doing stuff you like, and keep yourself up. Going around looking sick makes the people around you feel bad, and then you will too. Mainly, don't give up. I'm 67, and I enjoy every day, and thank God in the morning and at night for each new day. So hang in there. We may still be around when they find the cure! Donna too

Hi Donna,    I am so happy for you.  I was diagnosed in June and will have my 5th chemo next week.  I hope I am as fortunate as you in months to come.  Had they been checking  your CA125?  Mine is checked right before my next chemo.  I was 139 last Chemo, started at 5,060.  You give me a lot of hope that I will go into remission.   Thenks,   Judy

Hi Donna,too,    You sure give me a lot of hope.  I will take 10 years as you have.  You have a great attitude and it helps the rest of us. Did the DR's do the CA125 test on you?  I am just curious as to what your number was or is. 

judy

There is a post on Cancer Compas about wearing what is called a Penquin Cap that can help you keep your hair!  It is a cold cap worn when you receive you chemo.

Karen