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Hi Deb,
I'm sorry to hear about your situation.
After dx, Linda had 4X AC and 4X taxol every 2 weeks, to shrink or down-stage her tumor. It was 10 - 12 cm, very large and aggressive and she didn't notice it until it hardened, (obviously too late). She had a lumpectomy; the tumor now 1cm., and after 4 weeks started radiation. She was 3 days into the rads when she crashed from lack of energy. The docs fast tracked her through tests (on a friday)and on Monday, we were told that 80% of her liver was cancerous and unless she responded to treatment immediately; she had 2 weeks to live. Talk about your life passing before your eyes!
The onc, with much consultation and second opinions, put her on herceptine + navelbine + xeloda + celebrex (2X day) and neupogen (1X day) that same day. 4 days later she jaundiced. I read the drug info and voluntarily pulled the xeloda because of its drug history of liver toxicity. I tried to get her into a clinical trial but she was too sick to qualify. I also put her on 320 mg. of Co-Q10 / day and 2 grams of Coumarin / day as both are proven anti-tumor agents. That was 4 months ago. Two weeks ago the docs cut back the navilbine from weekly to 3X per month due to low blood counts and suspected nerve damage in her wrists. She is now also on weekly Eprex shots for her RBC counts as well. He also put her on ritalin for energy and that has made a huge difference in Q.O.L. She will be on chemo for at least another 3 months when they will stop the navelbine and keep her on Herceptine. They have categorized her as "stable liver disease" which doesn't really make me happy but we are researching other options.
I hope this is helpful for you. Stay positive and strong because I think outlook has a lot to do with recovery. Linda knew very well how sick she was but NEVER doubted her recovery. In my next life, I want to have as much strength as my wife.
Take care,
Al
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