mejenni

Welcome! Sorry to hear about not just the diagnosis, but the liver involvement. Treatments vary so much from person to person that there's really no way to know what to expect. This is a great sounding board to vent and ask questions though. And dont forget to use your loved ones oncology office to the fullest. Chemo brain strikes often for me so I have a treatment notebook that I bring every visit that I jot down side effects I've experienced and any questions I think of between appointments so in case I forget when there. I also ask for printed literature whenever there is a lot of information so I can refresh the information later. Cancer treatment is a whole new world and a lot of new information and experiences. Dont be afraid to ask for help and know that you guys are not alone.

Hi MeJenni,
Regarding the side-effects from FOLFIRINOX, most everyone (medical professionals, patients and caregivers) agree that they're going to vary significantly from patient to patient. In wife's case, she's been able (and willing) to accept the side-effects for the Hope and documented CT/PET scan results they've generated. When asked, she say that the worst of these effects has been "Peripheral Neuropathy" (http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/basics/definition/con-20019948). Then, she'd explain that the worst of the worst has been the slow, but steady loss of feeling in her feet. And, to a lesser extent the numbness in her finger tips.

After 6 or 7 FOLFIRINOX treatments (every 2 weeks for about 5 months), she needed to use a cane to walk at home and away. Based on that growing issue, her oncologist reduced the OX = Oxaliplatin (Eloxatin) portion of her FOLFIRINOX regimen (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FOLFIRINOX).

Soon afterwards, the feeling in her feet and hands got better. Not normal, but from a caregiver's perspective, observably better. That one formula change (less Oxapilatin), plus a 2-month break in FOL....X treatments due to the overall documented positive outcomes have resulted in her walking without a cane for all daily activities and up to 2 miles on especially nice days when we visit some of our old favorite walking paths and parks.

Moral of this story: Track/document the bi-weekly changes in neuropathy experienced (understanding that it's likely to get worse over time). Always, keep her oncologist/team informed. Then, if this side-effect becomes too survive, s/he can adjust the FOLFIRINOX formula, as needed. I hope my viewpoint helps a little. My prayers for the best for your mother. Rick

Check out this Wonderful Site below AND his facebook page.
ALSO...the new book by Kelly Turner PhD "RADICAL REMISSON".

http://www.chrisbeatcancer.com/

Good Luck!
Plant foods is always the best.
Barry

Welcome to the site mejenni. I hope we can be helpful to you and your loved one as you make your way through the process of post-diagnosis. Please feel free to check with us should you have any questions or concerns. With best regards JMS

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Welcome to the WhatNext family! The WhatNext family is made up of people like you who are looking for help or looking to help others. To help you along your journey the WhatNext family has put together a Beginner's Guide to Cancer that I highly recommend you check-out here: http://bit.ly/10BQKCi. Also, please do not hesitate to reach out to others or ask for help.

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