Talking Frankly about Living with Advanced Cancer
Are you living with advanced cancer (sometimes referred to as stage 4 or metastatic cancer)?
This discussion is a safe space where you can connect with others to talk about the realities of living with limited time. It's not easy to find people who understand what it is like. For many reasons, you may not feel comfortable talking about your thoughts and emotions with friends or family. Perhaps you are alone. Even if you are surrounded by people who support you, you may experience intense loneliness.
Connect is a place where honest conversation can safely take place. You can speak frankly and be heard without judgement. I invite you to share your reality facing death and living now.
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Cancer Support Group.
@pbprice, I was thinking about you today. How are you doing?
@pbprice, I can understand your worry about not being able to get your scheduled chemotherapy because of low white blood cells. Now that your oncologist knows that the chemo affects your WBCs, they can be better prepared for next time. The Neulasta injection is usually given once during a chemotherapy cycle, at least 24 hours after the last dose of chemotherapy in the cycle and 14 days before the first dose of chemotherapy in the next cycle. So hopefully they will be able to give it to you after your next round of chemotherapy so you can stay on schedule after that. It's complicated, but does that make sense?
Like @becsbuddy suggested, ask questions about getting Neulasta the next time.
Are you on Carbo and Doxil? And for how long? Thanks
@pbprice I’m glad to hear you wear a mask especially with flu season on its way! Also remember to keep your hands clean and they touch all surfaces. Wash, wash, wash!
Yes, I'm being very careful and wearing my nose mask when I'm out; was scheduled on 10/3 for my last treatment, but unable because of low WBC; waiting on lab results (10/7) for a confirmation of appt reschedule 2c the doctor
Physically, and spiritually, I'm well; emotionally, depression gets in the way for no apparent reason; at times memory can be off key; I want to return to the job market just as soon I can get this list chemo :<) Thanks 4 asking!
@pbprice I’m sure you are a little anxious about not receiving your last dose of chemo. The doctor said they can’t do it because the WBCs are too low. I’m glad you are eating well. Are you also being super careful to avoid infections especially with flu season starting? When will you be seeing the doctor next? You want to ask about the chemo and neulasta and get a good explanation. If the clinic has a portal for emails, you might try that also. Or call the triage nurse in the clinic and ask. Can you try one of these things?
@pbprice This is no doubt concerning for you, and might cause not just a little anxiety. We are not doctors here and cannot offer medical advice. I do suggest you contact your doctor and care team to ask this question, as they know your case the best. Would you please come back and let us know what they say? How are you feeling these days?
Ginger
I was unable to received my last chemo treatment because of my WBC; I'm doing the healthy greens, fresh papaya and supplement, extra protein products; Is there anything else I can do; My doctor said I could not received the Neulasta, because it had 2b given after the first treatment (wasn't given because I recovered well); My CA125 is 3.4 now; Do I need the last chemo?
Thank you! Will do.