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05-08-2005, 10:52 AM

Hi Sherry,
My thoughts are with you and I send best wishes your way. In our situation with children, celebrations such as mother's day can be difficult. We all want to be here for our families, friends, and oursselves as long as possible. I went through a few of your prior posts to recap what you have been dealing with. Did you have the chemoembolization? If you did, how did it go.

Another thought... Is it possible for you to consult a large center such as M.D. Anderson to find out what other possibilities might be out there for you? I would be concernced with an oncologist who is not tuned in about your issues or your concerns. It is really not easy to have this when children are involved. Maybe you don't have to give up at this point. There could be options out there or a trial that would take you. (I read your post that it is hard to get into one at this stage.)

On the other hand, it is sensible to have a plan, when or if you need it. I would contact someone from Hospice in your area as a consult to find out what the options are, and how it is for families with children who have been treated at home. The positive for being treated at home is that your family doesn't have to run back and forth to the hospital, which also takes energy.

I don't know the ages of your children, but if the time comes when you have to make a decision such as this, they could be part of the decision, if they are old or mature enough. I received the book "Cancer in the Family: Helping Children Cope with a Parent's Illness" by Sue P. Heiney from the Dana Farber when I became stage 4 a year ago this month. It is published by the American Cancer Society so I'm sure if you called them you they would send it to you. They may also know someone who could speak with you about the decisions you have to make. We also have a Wellness Community in our city. If you have one near you, they are a great resource for the entire family and extended family. You could check online. If there is not one near you, there may be a number to call to get some advice.

Please keep us all informed, and don't worry about writing when you are down. We all have our moments.

Again, best wishes to you and try to enjoy your day as much as you can.

Barbara H.

05-08-2005, 10:52 AM	#3
Barbara H. Guest Posts: n/a	Hi Sherry, My thoughts are with you and I send best wishes your way. In our situation with children, celebrations such as mother's day can be difficult. We all want to be here for our families, friends, and oursselves as long as possible. I went through a few of your prior posts to recap what you have been dealing with. Did you have the chemoembolization? If you did, how did it go. Another thought... Is it possible for you to consult a large center such as M.D. Anderson to find out what other possibilities might be out there for you? I would be concernced with an oncologist who is not tuned in about your issues or your concerns. It is really not easy to have this when children are involved. Maybe you don't have to give up at this point. There could be options out there or a trial that would take you. (I read your post that it is hard to get into one at this stage.) On the other hand, it is sensible to have a plan, when or if you need it. I would contact someone from Hospice in your area as a consult to find out what the options are, and how it is for families with children who have been treated at home. The positive for being treated at home is that your family doesn't have to run back and forth to the hospital, which also takes energy. I don't know the ages of your children, but if the time comes when you have to make a decision such as this, they could be part of the decision, if they are old or mature enough. I received the book "Cancer in the Family: Helping Children Cope with a Parent's Illness" by Sue P. Heiney from the Dana Farber when I became stage 4 a year ago this month. It is published by the American Cancer Society so I'm sure if you called them you they would send it to you. They may also know someone who could speak with you about the decisions you have to make. We also have a Wellness Community in our city. If you have one near you, they are a great resource for the entire family and extended family. You could check online. If there is not one near you, there may be a number to call to get some advice. Please keep us all informed, and don't worry about writing when you are down. We all have our moments. Again, best wishes to you and try to enjoy your day as much as you can. Barbara H.