First time I've posted on a board regarding diagnsis of cancer. Here is my story -
Divorced 53 yr. old female w/soon to be 16 yr. old daughter. I live in small town in Oklahoma.
In January I left long term employment w/a great company to go into new field with risky company. Began not sleeping, loosing weight, depression which I attributed to stress of new job.
In June I started feeling lightheaded at times w/cranial pressure. Nothing painful but bothersome.
Went to the doctor around middle of July and was referred on to ear, nose, throat specialist with appt in August.
On July 23, had seizure at work (that was a trip) and ER doctor told me I had several brain tumors and lung tumor and must go to larger hospital to neurosurgeon.
Did MRI, CT scans, and bronchoscopy all night after arriving via ambulance at larger hospital. Initially said they would do surgery to remove brain tumors but put if off for several days due to weekend and more conferences needed. Also had another seizure while in hospital.
On my birthday, 7/28, neurosurgeon told me surgery was not an option any longer and radiation oncologist would be in to talk to me. The oncologist told me and my family that I was stage IV and had (statistically speaking) 6 months left, give or take 3. Lung tumor was probably 2 years old and brain tumors started 6 months ago.
Said I should start radiation immediately to shrink tumors in brain. Did 13 entire brain and 13 entire lung radiation treatments. Finished about 3 weeks ago.
Went for my rescan last week and then met with chemotherapy oncologist. He recommends 3 months of chemo using Platinol-AQ and Gemzar. When I asked what I would get in return, he said it would probably extend my time by 3 months. They only rescanned brain and the tumors did shrink!
I called MD Anderson to see about getting in there for 2nd opinion.
Been like bad dream. Shopped online for caskets today then made reservations to Florida for me and daughter. (is that ying and yang or something?)
Has anyone had experience with a estimated lifespan of 6 months and/or MD Anderson?
Just looking for information I can use for either hope or planning.
Thanks for taking the time to let me introduce myself.
Jeanette
