Ovarian Cancer Support Group

Oh my Gosh! You have really had a time of it. The only thing I can relate to is the Stage II OVCA. Surgery and debulking, then chemo. I have heard it said that being through cancer/chemo is enough to cause PSTD, You have had a triple whamy. I sounds like you are doing well if you are back to work. Welcom to the group. You will find the most loving and caring women you will ever meet. I am hoping we can help. Love and Hugs, Anita

Hi and welcome to our great site. I was also diagnosed about the same time as you were with stage3 OC, only mine was a recurrence after nearly seven years. I haven't heard of anyone going through the complications that you have had, nor have I heard of this before. However there are plenty of wonderful women here who have shared the rest of your experience and this is a great support group.

I have been getting the idea that I am going through some sort of stress disorder since my treatment ended, as have a couple of other women here and would be interested to know what the symptoms are.

You've had a really dreadful time of it.. as Anita says, cancer and normal treatment is more than enough for us to go through. It's encouraging to hear your enthusiasm for your work and that you are getting of with it. I am having a hard time getting motivated to do anything these days and am hoping that this is just a phase and will pass soon.

I'm in the UK and here it is standard treatment to have just carboplatin in the first instance of OC, with other drugs being kept for a possible recurrence. It is the most effective, first line chemo for OC.

Well done, for getting through such an ordeal.. and best wishes to you as you get back to your life.. Inka xxx

Maybe you can share with us some of the symtoms of PTSD. I am sure that would help some of us that may be going through this, and what remedies work. Thanks, Anita

Holy cow,, You have really been through the wringer. I cannot really offer advice other than keeping a positive attitude and to try and always look for the positive's. Thats how I seem to get through it all. I had stage 3 OV also. Went through the surgery,8 chemos. Was clean for 6 months to have it return and am now going thru chemo again as where the tumors are, are inoperable. Ds has been a great help to me as only the ladies here really understand. Sounds to me like you are really doing very well for what you have been through. Stay Strong. Hugs to you,Carol

Welcome! You have certainly been through a trial and thank goodness you have found us and are here to share with this wonderful group. I was diagnosed the same time as you, but can only relate to the surgery and treament part. I have seen many of us speak of stress, post-treatment(s) and it would be wonderful if you could share your experiences with us.

Best wished to you and your amazing strength and ability to overcome.

Kellie

You have been through the mill and it's not at all surprising you have a stress disorder. I had an emergency hysterectomy June 16th 2006. It turned out to be stage 1C OC--my tumor had burst 36 hours prior to surgery. I had no idea I had cancer entering in to the surgery, the surgeon suspected something else. I woke up on the oncology unit in the room next to the room where my Dad had died several years ago--of lung and brain cancer. I didn't do chemo right away because I didn't have a supportive environment, as I was living with my unstable 80 year old mother. Four months after my surgery, my mother had a stroke. We had a caregiver move in for her. Three months later, and another stroke, sent my mother to Assisted Care. It was now 8 months after my surgery. I headed right to chemo. After my first infusion I was rushed to the emergency room for a violent reaction to both carboplatin and taxotere. My oncologist said "it happens". After my second infusion and another violent reaction my oncologist discontinued chemo. I was left with severe peripheral neuropathy caused by the chemo drugs. My symptoms are many. I feel like I'm plugged into an electrical outlet 24/7. I have severe numbness and sharp stabbing knifelike pains all over--head to toe. My endrocrinologist says this will not get better. I am on a medication called Lyrica (and, it does help) but causes profound dizziness. I figure that my panic attacks stem from all that I've been through physically (and emotionally) during the past two years. You are not alone. Although my attitude is great most days, I have my moments. I think it's utterly amazing that you are back at work. I'm so glad I've met you. I only joined this group today, and already, I feel at home. I don't know the symptoms of PTSD, but if you want me to share more about the panic I have, let me know. I'm glad we are all here. Peace and Love to each of you.