Mesothelioma and bone cancer

Hi. Hoping to link up here online with people who may share some of my experiences. My name's Lesley, I'm 56 and when I was 27 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had surgery, radiotherapy and chemo. Then 6 years again I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had radical surgery and chemotherapy followed by a hysterectomy the following year. All was well for several years. I got divorced, raised my children on my own and retrained to be a teacher. In 2013 I was diagnosed with mesothelioma (asbestosis) and a few months later with bone mets (from the breast cancer) In July 2013 I was given a prognosis of less than a year. My local hospital was going to adopt a 'watch and wait' policy which horrified me so I googled Mesothelioma consultants. Long story short I have been treated by a wonderful expert. I had radical surgery and chemotherapy. Over the years I've had many courses of chemo and radiotherapy, it's been a hell of a rollercoaster, loads of ups and downs but......I'm still here, defying the odds! 
Anyone else had a diagnosis of mesothelioma? 

 

 

  • Hello Lesley56

    You certainly have been on a rollercoaster and I'm delighted to hear that you're defying the odds! It's always fantastic when we get members like yourself who are able to share these kind of experience, and we've quite a number over the years. It gives a lot of hope to those who are just starting out on their cancer journey so thank you for taking the time to share. 

    If you use the forum search function (magnifying glass in the blue bar at the top of the page) to search for the term "mesothelioma" you'll see that there are lots of posts to read where it is mentioned and you may be able to connect with others who have that particular diagnosis. 

    We've a few members here who are currently beating the odds. [@Denise1977]‍ and [@davek]‍ are 2 who spring to mind and you might find it interesting to have a look through their stories too. 

    Keep in touch Lesley56 and sending my very best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

  • Hello Lesley I have a different cancer but stage 4.You are a such a inspiration.I was diagnosed in May 2019.And still doing well.some of the tumors even gone.I had liver and kidney and lung mets.primary is breast cancer.With my diagnosis one think i wouldnt last for very long.But I am still here I am even working 2xweek and Fridays I am having chemo.

     

    Thanks for your post its uplifting and wishing you well

  • Hi Jenn,

     

    Thank you for your message and best wishes. i'll definitely search for mesothelioma posts as well as looking up the other members you suggested.

    This is a great forum, offering help and support to/from others - I wish I'd found it ages ago! 

     

    Take care and thanks again,

    Lesley

  • Hi Denise,

     

    Thank you for your message. It was lovely to hear from you. You're doing so well, I'm so pleased for you! Stories like yours really do inspire others to keep fighting tho it's tough at times isn't it!! I hope you're coping ok with the chemo and work doesn't tire you out too much. 
     

    Take care,

    Lesley xx

     

  • Hi Lesley thank you for your kind words.Actually I am having CT scan tomorrow so i am hoping its still all ok.

    Work is making me happy.I just work week from 8-4 pm and only in the office helping the manager to review the care plans and all sort of paperwork.I begun to feel mad just to sit at.home.I wanted to live my life.normal and not only with hospital appt.

     

    Denise

  • Hi Denise,

    I hope your CT scan went well and you don't have to wait too long for the results.

    I've got a CT scan on Friday. I had one a few weeks ago but my Consultants didn't agree on the results so it's a repeat one!! 
    Good luck,

    Lesley

  • Hello Lesley just had my CT scan results.And I am over the moon.Paclitaxel still working.only cancer I left are few nodules in my lungs biggest one still shrinking.

    My onco was like usually very rude and abrupt but I dont care anymore I assume she is not happy I am still here.Few months ago my husband told her is has no emotions and she is useless:)

     

    She asked what i want to do so i carry on with the Paclitaxel and booked. 4 weeks break in September.

     

    Denise