I'm a 61 year old man with 2 adult children. In February, I was diagnosed with Colon cancer after a colonoscopy and after several other tests found it was Stage IV terminal cancer with tumors mestacised to the liver 90% and the lymph nodes. First there was a hope of surgery, but because of the liver diagnosis, I am inoperable.
I was in shock, as I had no pain, but blood in the stool. Regardless,after meeting with 4 different specialists, I was told by everyone to "get my life in order" as I had 8 months to a year to live. After being assigned an Oncologist, I was told I didn't need to do chemo, but "why not give it a try". Chemo could give me some extra time on this earth.
I am now on my 8th very aggressive chemo treatment, the first 3 with major reactions, ending up in intensive care. I've been recommended to be on chemo for the rest of my life but I am struggling with that. I am completely wiped out and totally fatigued for about 8 days following chemo. No pain from cancer, only fatigue.
Lots of pressure to stay on chemo and some pressure to try alternative treatments. Looking forward to chatting with folks in a similar stage