Karen Markey

Thanks for your post, Steph and for sharing your mom's and aunt's experiences. (I actually had to chuckle about your aunt chasing her 3rd-graders.) After hearing their stories and treatment successes, and those of others as well on this site, I am encouraged. I generally do pretty well but every now and then hopelessness sets in (but never around mom!). And, yes, I am so very grateful to be so close to her. Now onward to my homework... I'm trying to learn as much as I can (although sometimes it makes my head spin). I wish the very best for you all and hope to hear more continued successes. Best, Karen

Thanks for the welcome and advice.

Hi all. I'm so glad I found this site with so many wonderful people willing to share their stories. I already feel like I know many of you. MY STORY: My beautiful 79-year old mom was recently diagnosed with Stage IIIB adenocarcinoma metastatic lung cancer (to the lymph nodes in the chest area between her lungs) with a small tumor on her upper right lung (origin unknown, even following full PET scan??). The area was deemed too large for radiation and so chemo (carboplatin and alinta) was started. She received one treatment which made her sick, "woozy" and unable to function from fatigue. BP also dropped too low and her BP meds were halted. 2nd chemo treatment (scheduled for 3 weeks later) was delayed for blood transfusion to help with low hemoglobin anemia. Chemo was then halted because new swollen lymph appeared in her neck. She qualified for Keytruda and had her first treatment 2 days ago. Dr. said absent a miracle, a "cure" is off the table. Just not sure what we might expect going forward. I have read through so many stories and (maybe I am searching incorrectly) but I can't seem to find anyone with the same "story" as mom. I should also note that my sister and I are trying soooo hard to be a positive influence and keep Mom eating, getting exercise (walking), and engaging with friends. Other difficulties include her advanced macular degeneration and the fact that she lives 35 minutes from each of us, though we strive to get up multiple times a week, take her out, prepare healthy meals, etc. and stay with her when/if needed. I should note that she doesn't want to come stay with either of us ... she just wants to be in her own home where she has her friends and is comfortable with her surroundings (as her very poor eyesight has declined even more following the chemo treatment). I am open to any/all advice and I look forward to connecting/learning from you.