I am new to this site and have read some of the posts and found the support people give each other amazing.
My mother-in-law had breast cancer 2 and a half years ago and she had a mastectomy, lots of lymph nodes removed and then a strong course of chemo (CMF and epirubicin) and 6 weeks of radiotherapy. After each chemo session she suffered neutropenic sepsis (and was hospitalised) which was worse each time and in fact almost killed her the last time resulting in the last chemo session being withdrawn.
About 6 weeks ago she found a lump in her neck and was examined and had a CT scan which showed she has in fact got 2 tumours in her neck, 1 in the area of her mastectomy, 1 on her lung and a several in the bones at the top of her back/shoulder area.
We were told that she couldn’t have invasive chemo and was to have capecitabine which is a tablet because of how her body had reacted last time.
Then we found out that her creatinine clearance was only just about high enough for a 50% doseage of capecitabine. However at the same time we were also told that her platelets in her blood were only 44 and to have any form of chemo the level must be at least 100-150.
2 days ago we were told that there is nothing that can be done to help her and we are all stunned to think that this is it. Surely there must be something else?
My mother-in-law doesn’t know the full extent and has asked very few questions, but we are all extremely upset and are desperate to find out if there is anyone in a similar situation both for support and also for any avenues we can possibly explore.
Many thanks to anyone who takes the time to read this
Debi x
Hi Debi, so sorry to hear of your mother-in-law’s condition. I don’t know where you are in the uk but I know some hospitals have trials that patients can go on. Of course, it would depend on her fitness levels but might be worth exploring? I am just bumping this up as I’m sure someone will be along shortly who can advise you better.
All the best, Pat x
Hi Pat
Thanks for your reply, we are in Stafford in the Midlands. The main problem we have got is that her platelets aren’t high enough but surely there must be something??
Debi xx
Hi Debi,
You must all be devastated and there’s very little anyone can say that will make you feel better. The only thing I can suggest is that you ask for a second opinion. In England, the Royal Marsden seems to get a good reputation for being up to date with the latest treatments for breast cancer. It might also be a good idea to phone the Breast Cancer Care helpline. They might be able to tell you who in your local area has the best reputation. Your Mother-in Law’s oncologist should have no problem with you asking for another opinion.
best wishes for a good outcome,
Jan xxx