Stage 4 cancer diagnosis

I am sorry to hear about your friend. Treatments vary widely depending on each person's situation. For example, if she is ER+, her treatment may be different than someone who is ER- or HER2 +. The extent of spread and size of tumors is also a factor. Stage IV bc is complex (as is all bc) and there is no "one treatment". I would suggest that your friend learn as much about her condition as possible and that she be very comfortable with her treatment team. Seeking a second opinion is also a good idea as well. Best of luck to your friend.

I am not familiar with the Chicago area, so can't help you there. As far as mastectomy goes, it is very common for those diagnosed at the outset with metastatic disease to not have mastectomy. However, this is not always the case and something that needs to be discussed with her oncologist. I can't emphasize enough how each person is different and that there's not one "best" way to go for all. Also without the details of her particular bc, it would be irresponsible for anyone here to even guess at possible treatment options. The best place for your friend to begin is with her first oncologist appt. it would be very helpful for her to take someone along and record the visit as she might well need time to digest all the info and then follow up with more questions later.

GK15 - 'mets' is short for metastasis - what it means basically is that the cancer that was originally in the breast has been found in other areas of the body beyond the breast and the lymph nodes near the breast. This is still breast cancer even though it may be in the bones, brain, liver, etc. This is essentially what Stage IV means - that the cancer has spread beyond the 'local' area.

Hi GK, I live in the upper Northwest part of the state so I go to Swedish American Cancer Center, they're a part of the Swedish American Hospital system.  As for the best hospital in the Chicagoland area, I'm not sure which one is the best.  I got my 2nd opinion from the University of Chicago.  However, I think any of the major research hospitals, Northwestern, Rush and University of Chicago, are expert in the cancer field.  If anyone else has any direct knowledge of great cancer treatment facilities in Chicago, hopefully they will post with their recommendations.

GK I had bilateral mastectomy at Luthern General in Park Ridge.  Dr Bruce Stoehr is fantastic   I also had my chemo there by Dr Sigrun Hallmeyer. Both are wonderful.  Good luck to your friend.  Very difficult time indeed.  She is fortunate to have you.  My best.   Nancy 

GK15 -- sorry not to answer your question -- I've been on vacation for Christmas.  Others have given great information and I hope your friend's treatment goes well.

Pam

GK - I hope that your friend is getting the best treatment possible. You sound like a wonderful friend. Please don't hesitate to ask for support any time. It's really hard to be the person (or one of them) who is trying to stay strong for someone else. Take care of yourself, too. Much love and many hugs.