Neg3; Stage4

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KDXButterfly
KDXButterfly Member Posts: 2
edited June 2014 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

my mother has been diagnosed "triple-negative; stage 4." what do i have to look forward to? so far, i am a basket case trying to remain vigillaintly smiling.

 Thanks in advance.

 KDXButterfly 

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  • Luah
    Luah Member Posts: 1,541
    edited July 2011

    KDX: I am so sorry to hear about your mother's diagnosis. I am no expert on these matters, but wanted to share a few thoughts that may be helpful.

    As you probably know, stage 4 describes invasive breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast area to other parts of the body. It can't be "cured," but often stage 4 BC can be managed almost as a chronic disease for years. Unfortunately for Triple Negative patients, there are fewer treatment options - chemo, radiation, for example. There are also some promising therapies under study, and it's possible your mother may qualify for a clinical trial. Her prognosis and how to proceed depends on the location and extent of the disease - and her health otherwise. What do her doctors say? It would be good if you can go with her to discuss her options with her oncologist. You may also want to post on the Stage 4 board, where there are lots of very supportive ladies dealing with what your mother is facing.

    I understand your desire to be "vigilantly smiling." But hopefully, with good information from the dcotor, you two can also have a frank, heart-to-heart discussion about hopes, fears, plans and her support needs and desires. Best wishes to you both.

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  • christina1961
    christina1961 Member Posts: 736
    edited July 2011

    KDX,

    I am so sorry that you and your mother are going through this.  On the breast cancer trials site, you can "match" the diagnosis with available clinical trials.  Don't forget to "take care of you" as much as you can, reach out for support and help.  The hospital where I receive my treatment has a cancer resource center with free counseling for family members and patients, a weekly support group, books, online links to published information, etc. 

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  • KDXButterfly
    KDXButterfly Member Posts: 2
    edited July 2011

    Thanks for the support. Some days I think I am pretty depressed, and other days, I think I am being premature in my feelings. It seems as though they have already given her a death sentence. I mean, we all have our time to go, but I feel like hers has been moved up. It is what it is.

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