Connect
← Return to Started chemo for pancreatic cancer and already want to quit
Discussion
Started chemo for pancreatic cancer and already want to quit
Pancreatic Cancer | Last Active: Nov 28, 2023 | Replies (52)Comment receiving replies
we talk to the oncologist on Tuesday, but from the sounds of others in the group she will still be sick from what it sounds like,there is no chemo miracle drug for side effects, it sounds to me like chemo is very difficult on people and she is already so weak, I'm scared the chemo might be to hard on her and I don't think her body can take it, she has only had 1round of chemo and we were all very concerned that she wasn't gonna live through it. I can't find any information or numbers on the people that pass away from direct chemo being the cause of death, I'm just lost on everything right now, because if the chemo ended up causing her death I would feel guilty the rest of my life for taking her into continueing it , I don't understand why there are not stats on chemo deaths? the right decision needs to be made and it's hard for me to push her to do something that I am not entirely sure is he right thing to do
Replies to "we talk to the oncologist on Tuesday, but from the sounds of others in the group..."
It is so difficult to find information on stage 4 pancreatic cancer numbers. I will be receiving my 41st gemcitabine/Abraxane treatment on Thursday. At first, I got it 2 weeks on and one week off. Now I am receiving it one week off, one week on which is a bit easier on me. I recommend trying protein shakes. We use the Walmart protein powder & mix in milk which I have one glass per day. The worst part is of the treatments for me has always been the peripheral neuropathy, especially to my feet and lower legs. I do use pain pills for that. I have been blessed with only occasional nausea & do use the Compazine or Zofran if I get the slightest feeling of nausea. When someone wants to know how they can help, I always ask for prayers. I truly feel that helps me. I could not have made it this far without them. I have been on the same meds since July 2022 and am almost afraid to change up anything after the next CT in December. I will include you & your sister in my prayers.
Connect
Palliative care might be helpful. I know that at some clinics, palliative care is synonymous with hospice, which means stopping treatment. However, at my clinic, I was referred to palliative immediately upon diagnosis. My palliative MD deals with comfort and symptom control, such as loss of appetite and stomach acid. He'll do pain control if/when I need it. He knows my oncologist and stays in touch with him. We also learned yesterday that the practice also has a four-bed infusion unit for patients who need fluids or control meds for pain and nausea. This is separate from the chemo infusion unit and immediately accessible during weekdays rather than requiring an appointment in advance. You might inquire about palliative care for your mom.