35 Year Old Surprise Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer - Need to talk

On 11/4/2003 eric s. wrote:

Karmen is feeling OK and she already completed the irentocan, leucovroin and 5fu cocktail now she has oxaliplatin and 5fu, leucovorin and the pump for 48 hours. She has had her abdomen drained from fluids three times and despite everything she is doing well. What kind of clinical study r u on? Karmen has in the perroneal lining and therefore it can't be surgically removed because she may bleed to death. Chemo seems to be keeping it stable in size but it isn't controlling the fluids. How r u doing? Feel free to respond. Eric ps. We are located in nj where ru?

hi, I noticed the date but couldn't find any newer messages with the same content that you had.  My siste was diagnosed 18months ago with stage iv colon cancer.  It had met. to her ovary so they removed it and 5inches of her colon.

Now it has spread to her abdominal cavity and she is swelling up.  They put in drain tubes I feel like everyone is optimistic, but she really doesn't look well at all. 

Anything you have to say would be helpful.

Thanks

Ta'Mara

Eric,

I too am new to this site. I was diagnosed April 2, 2008 of stage 3 colon cancer. I have had one surgery to do a biopsy and I am scheduled for a resection in two weeks. I understand her frustration, I am 45 with three daughters, although my children are older I thought that was worse because they undestand what cancer is and what cancer can do to you. Colon cancer runs in my family and we are currently going under genetic testing. The whole process is scary because of my early cancer at a younger age my daughters will need to be tested at a early age. I would gladly pave the road for them so they don't have to ordain this horrible disease. I pray for a cure for all cancer patients and for the future for our kids. Research has come a long way over the years and there are so many new treatments out there. I try to stay optimistic and upbeat so I don't discourage my husband and kids but sometimes it just gets to you and you sit down and have a pity party. My girls and I had a PJ party the other night, popcorn, movies , laughter and a time just to be normal again. That has been my way of dealing, just try to lead as normal a life as possible. Yes, I have cancer but cancer doesn't have me. Love one another and keep each other close. We will all get thru this, just listening and reading all the success stories gives me comfort and hope. I will pray for you and your wife and your little ones. Take care, and keep the faith.

God Bless, Sheryl

On 10/1/2003 Don L. wrote:

I just completed 2 years of fighting late stage 3 rectal cancer. All I can say from a negative to a positive in my life. I consider it a pause in life! A time to reflect and a time to reset priorities. My journey was incredible. I experienced 6 surgeries, 70+ chemo treatments and 40 radiation treatments. Now I am fighting to stay in remission. My faith, family and friends helped me so much during this time of life. It is a battle, but the treatments do work, and if you maintain good nutrition, get rest, try to exercise during the process and read or listen to as many uplifting books as possible that is the ticket. I just look at Lance Armstrong's fight with cancer and his was a miracle. So turn it over to God and ride out the storm. I met some of the most incredible, upbeat cancer patients who kept me positive! Surround yourself with ALL positive situations and dump all the negative things around you! You can really set an example for your kids! This is a true test in life! Yes, you will be tired, sick and I am sure down at times, but push forward and keep busy if possible. You can achieve great things and then share your journey with others. My advice keep a journal and get those negative thoughts out of your head on to paper then reflect. It seems that it was so long ago that I battled this sickness. So document your journey, it just might be a best seller! Blessings and keep on keeping ON!... :O) Don L.

On 10/20/2003 Paulette H. wrote:

Hi, I am 35 and was just diagnosed Sept. 12 with stage 3 colon cancer. I have 5 small children, and am a stay at home mom. I'm going in for my 2nd treatment tomorrow. It sounds like your wife and I are receiving the same treatment. If she wants to talk let me know.

How are you doing now? I am 32 and my husband wa diagnosed at 35 with stage 4 colon cancer...he has mets to the stomach lining.. he is now 37.We have a child who has just turned  6 and I don't think my husband will last the year... he is currently recieving nurtition via TPN and we have ben told he won't eat again...My husband has asked to go to hospice.I need a little encouragement if any exist....