Hello all,

My mum who is 68 y/o has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer last year. Has x3 chest drains inserted due to recurrent pleural effusion in a span of 4 months and the doctors could not do the TAHBSO as planned. When Mum felt better, they started her on chemo and Mum has now finished 7 cycles. Repeat CT scan showed that the ovarian tumours have not shrunk but has grown bigger in size. Mum does not know yet but will be seeing her oncologist next week. Mum has lost a lot of weight, has ascites in her abdomen and abdominal pain. 

Has anybody gone through or known someone who has been on a similar journey where the tumours have not shrunk despite chemo but still proceeded to have a debulking surgery, such as TAHBSO? I was wondering whether it is appropriate and beneficial to still opt for surgery at this stage?   

Also, I, myself, has just been diagnosed with breast cancer beginning of this year. My Mum and the rest of the family live abroad, I live alone here in the UK. I have not told any of my family members about my condition as I do not want them to worry, specially my Mum and my one and only sister who looks after Mum. I am the breadwinner, and I am the one they rely on when it comes to decision making regarding health/medical decisions. I am currently undergoing chemotherapy and it has been very difficult to talk to my family whenever I call them and pretend that I am okay. Because I am not. But, I will stay strong as there is no other option. 

Can't focus on myself , my treatment , as worried about my Mum. It has been three years since I have been home with my family. Sorry about the long post. Going back to my question, is it appropriate for Mum to still opt for TAHBSO at this stage?

Thanks in advance.

Moen