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Living with Stage 4 Liver Cancer
Cancer | Last Active: Dec 2, 2023 | Replies (41)Comment receiving replies
Dear Heart,
Emotions are good and bad in any situation. I have stage 4 liver cirrhosis with a 1.8 size cancer tumor. I gave to wait until the tumor grows to a size 2, then they will add radiation beads in the tumor, treat the diseased blood and plan on a liver transplant. I'm 66. When I first heard, I remember being overwhelmed, living in chaos and overthinking. My resolution for emotion is sharing with only those I trusted or here. It helped me to get it out, and find support groups. It's okay to cry. Crying relieves stress. Stress can be devastating to the healing process. I'm open to talk more. I've found I need support with others who have experience. I've been in this process since November and have improved emotionally. It's still on the surface daily.
Replies to "Dear Heart, Emotions are good and bad in any situation. I have stage 4 liver cirrhosis..."
Hi @ lynwarn,
I am new to this and wondering what type Cancer do you have. Is it strictly HCC or a Mets from somewhere else??
I also have cirrhosis but diagnosed with CCA (Bile duct cancer). I had stable liver disease and just monitor by the Charlotte Transplant team. But all that changed in Fall 2022.
I have been septic with E. Coli and they couldn’t figure out the source. Long story short… I have since had 4 ERCPs, they found the duct tumor on the Third procedure and therefore had to repeat trying to get better biopsies. My liver team immediately sent me to an instate transplant center and Mayo.
Mayo has done many scans and labs. But I’m waiting on next step.
So are you on the LTP list?? Is Mayo treating the cancer? Are you local to the facility you go to?
I am a 7-8 hr. Drive each way to JAX. They mentioned on my consultation the protocol for my situation would 5 wks. Chemo and Radiation then if I am accepted, they keep me on oral chemo until transplant. But my cancer is not well treated without transplant as the cirrhosis disqualifies me a resection.
I’m sorry for lengthy response but when I read you have cirrhosis and liver Ca. I had to reach out.
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I am in a similar situation. My tumor reached the 2 cm mark and was removed by heat ablation. I am now on the transplant list inactive status as my liver function is good. Keeping up with appointments and meds and knowing you are doing what you can to stay healthy is a good strategy. I find that being grateful for each day and spending time or communicating with friends and family keeps me in a good place. I am thankful for all the people and wonderful life experiences I have. I guess it is just a matter of finding a way to focus on the positive things in life.
I have been inspired by so many on this forum. It always amazes me that people are so resilient and hopeful and successful despite life changing challenges. Thank you for sharing your story and best of luck to you in your journey.