Chemo question?

Question

I really don't know the lingo well, but the situation: person has already been told there's pretty much no hope - doctor suggested end-of-life care. Patient says wants to try chemo anyways. Doctor says giving her one huge "dose" of the strongest "mix"? they have. Patient very, very frail, barely eating. So I have a couple of questions.
Can people that are pretty much at end of life, in such a condition, handle this? As in, can it do more damage than good?
If someone is getting the strongest, most potent dose of chemo, how long does it generally take for the side-effects to start?

This was the patient's decision, even though the doctor wasn't crazy about the idea. My fear is that she's going to pass on violently instead of peacefully. She will be in a pallative care situation, but they will take her for chemo if she decides to continue. Thank you kindly for your time.

Panda - thank you for the insight. The person is my soon to be mother in law, and she had cervical cancer last year. This cancer has spread after she was treated for it last year. The cancer is now all up down her spine, in her medulla, and up and down her legs, possibly more. They have done everything they could - and highly recommended "getting comfortable" with hospice and end of life care. He did say chemo (I really don't know the type) was another option, but he did not favor it, and said the chances are very slim. She is showing all of the signs of failing. I and my fiancee's family, are being very loving and supportive, but keeping a realistic outlook, hence the question. I really appreciate the answer - we'll just have to see I guess. And you're absolutely right about cancer patients, this has been far from the first in my life. Bless you.

Answer 1

What type of cancer and what type of chemotherapy is being suggested? There are hundreds of types of cancer and there are just as many types of chemotherapy.

I would say that if the patient wants to undergo the chemotherapy than that is their choice. It is a chance, but one she is willing to undergo. The side effects of high dose chemotherapy can be controlled with the right medications. My son who is a stage IV abdominal sarcoma patient underwent nine months of high dose chemotherapy (Vincristine, Doxirubicin, Cytoxan, Etoposide, Ifosomide) and about 14 months of low dose chemotherapy. His side effects were nausea which he learned to control by taking anti-nausea meds before starting chemo. He had them regularly scheduled so was able to stay in front of it. He also lost his hair. He would be hospitalized 3-5 days every month while getting treatment. But, he is a teenager and other than the cancer, very healthy and strong.

If this patient wants to take this risk it should be left up to her and those around her should maintain a positive and supportive outlook. The damage comes when you remove hope from a person. She needs to stay positive and focused mentally, even if the chemo does not work. At least she will have felt that she did all that she could do.

Cancer patients are among some of the most courageous people that I know. Her stance is admirable. Support her with your heart.

Answer 2

From what I have experienced, at this stage of cancer there is usually a fine balance struck between quality and quantity of life.
Time can be extended, but only if the patient is willing to undergo nasty side effects.
The patient can be kept comfortable, but will fail quickly.
Or a balance can be found between the two.

It would seem this patient has decided to opt for quantity over quality - possibly waiting for a particular event (your wedding?) or just not ready to say goodbye yet.

I have seen many slip away carmly and quietly once whatever they have been holding on for has occurred. This can be a wedding, a birth, a special anniversary or birthday, or the return of someone special who they were wanting to see.

Good luck, and continue supporting whatever her decision is.

Answer 3

awwwwww sweat heart first I would like to say I am so sorry. My family is going through something very similar. We are lost too. All I can say is this: If she feels she is strong enough to try something let her do it. It is her choice. She is just a wonderful lady that has a zest for life on earth. I can not blame her for wanted to try anything in her grasp to stay with her loved ones. I will pray for her. Just be a part of her life and continue to offer your support to the end.
God Bless you and grant you peace.