On 3/5/2008
JamiefromGA wrote:
I haven't written in a several weeks. But have checked this site periodically.
My mom had her first chemo treatment today. We had traveled to Jacksonville for a 2nd opinion and possibility of the Mayo Clinical Trial for cholangiocarcinoma. Dr. George Kim was really nice and it was well worth the trip. He talked about the possibility of a transplant (multi-organs - liver, gall bladder, etc) but said because her lymph nodes were involved she was not eligible for that but he did recommend chemo - something that the local Drs. had said "no surgery, no chemo, no radiation". She won't be in the trial, because of the distance (3 1/2 hrs away) and the side effects of the drugs they would need to use. Instead, she will take Gemzar (1000) for two weeks and then testing to determine the next step. We realize this is suppose to be a palliative treatment, not a cure. We are praying for God to heal her - maybe it'll be by chemo, maybe not - either way - we're happy she finally got to take it - and even happier that she has had NO side effects yet! Praise God! She even cooked supper and ate great tonight! We (my father & I) will continue to allow her the run of the house while she feels well enough. She is 70, independent and Italian - so we get out of her way when she gives the orders! We pray for another good day tomorrow as we are learning to take things a day at a time.
Jamie in GA
Hi Jamie,
My Dad was recently diagnosed with the same cancer at Robert Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Ctr. in Chicago. We are devasted b/c the cancer tumor is large with satellite tumors, inoperable and not eligible for transplant either. The treatment he has been offered is palliative. RIght now they can't even treat the cancer b/c his bile duct was blocked and they had to insert a biliary drain to relieve jaundice/lower bilirubin levels. At his appt. yesterday, the news was grim about the surival rate.
Dad is at least in fair spirits, but as family we are struggling to comprehend this and help support him. He is turning 65 in May and his grandkids want to see him survive for as long as possible. Anyway, your message touched me and I wish the very best for your Mom, you and family. I would love to hear from anyone going through something similar.
Thanks, Amy