marions

Have a wonderful time. I wish I could have joined you but, some great stories and a few pictures will make up for my not being able to part of this exclusive get-together.

Cyberhugs to you and Teddy and thank you for sharing this incredible, uplifting news. It is wonderful to see that the words “cancer free” can accompany a CC diagnoses. How inspiring this is.

Hi John…so glad to meet you. The one thing most of us have learned is that no one is able to predict (with certainty) the life expectancy of someone being touched by CC. You are 9 months and are still feeling o.k. which to me sounds very promising. And the fact that you have responded favorably to Gemcitabine is another reason to feel hopeful about your battle with this cancer. We have people on this board who are with us way beyond the predictions of their physicians so, why not you? Has a resection been ruled out? Also, have you had the inclination of contacting other physicians familiar with this disease? I am a strong believer in 2nd and 3rd opinions especially, when dealing with a cancer such as Cholangiocarcinoma. Most of all I am happy that you have reached out to this special community where members are welcoming and graciously share their experiences and knowledge in a most selfless way. Again, happy that you have joined us where none of us wish to be and yet, where none of us would rather be when CC becomes part of our life.
Tons of good wishes coming your way.
Marion

Thanks Sara, for the reminder. For those of us attending from the West Coast the time would be 12 noon.

Lisa….when it comes to CC then “lazy” is a welcome expression. Congratulations and thanks for sharing this uplifting report.

Don…Welcome and so glad for you to have found us. Many of us have experience with Klatskin tumor and I am hoping for others to answer some of your questions, also. The good news is that a resection is being contemplated once the biliruben has dropped to a more acceptable level. So, I am looking forward to hearing from you after Wednesday

Dave….I would also like to add to the support given by others that though some daily activities may be limited by the disease, it is usually best for the person with cancer to keep living as much like they did before as possible. Continuing to be a responsible adult can give the person with cancer a sense of confidence and control. Given in to feelings of dependence may make your wife feel even more helpless and like a victim. Also, because it is hard to get mad at cancer (the real cause of their frustration and sadness,) sometimes, the person with cancer may take the angry feelings out on the person closest to her. But most of all you need to remember to also reach out for help. I have learned that one can feel real alone when someone we love is coping with cancer. I have known of many who have joined a support group where they have gained new insights into what is happening, get ideas about how to cope, and it helps knowing that one just isn’t alone in a situation as the one you are experiencing.
Also, we are so fortunate to have Dr. Giles. You can find him on the top bar under “Patient Support” scroll down to” Ask Dr. Giles”. It is so easy to drop a note and find comfort with his wonderful replies. Remember, that you are not alone in this and that you have many ears and open hearts available to you. Sending tons of good wishes your way.
Marion

LuLuu….that is the great puzzle. Nothing in particular in re: to diet, exercise, sleeping pattern, etc. These are CC patients who, simply, respond favorably to their treatments whereas so many others with the same approach don’t have the same results. Wishing and hoping for your husband to belong to this group. Keep up the fight Luluu. By gathering several opinions from physicians and medical centers familiar with CC you and your husband will be making “informed decisions” which I believe, is the way to approach this cancer.
Tons of hugs coming your way,
Marion