I am sorry to hear that you are experiencing a spread of the cancer. We wish you well in your treatment.
I am Michael, Karen's brother in law. I am speaking for her and can relay what her experiences have been to date. She too had her gall bladder removed after the cancer was discovered in June 06. She to subsequently had her duodenum (sp) rerouted because the cancer was in her lymph nodes and were too swollen to remove and were causing her severe back pain.
Karen underwent 33 radiation treatments while on chemo called Xeloda. Her 3 week follow up revealed the lymph nodes in the stomach area were for the most part contained but she also had a new "hot spot" near her clavicle. She is now getting a chemo drip called gemcitabine. She will get it for 5 rounds that consist of 2 days every three weeks.
Karen is struggling with nausea and has throughout her treatment.
It is really great to hear that you are not experiencing ill feelings and that you do not look ill as well. I know that you and Karen could provide comfort to each other. Keep fighting, believe in your heart that you will be better and make your mind follow. You sound like a strong person who has the her mind right when it comes to your illness. Please let us know how we can helpo and how your treatment plan is working for you. Karen is being treated at CTCA in IL, you?