Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 | Welcome to OCF! You certainly have your hands full! No wonder you are stressed out about this, I cant imagine how hard it is to have 2 of your closest relatives have this horrible disease.
Most patients will get thru their OC treatments (some easier than others) move thru their recovery phase and go on to live happy, health long lives. Having a recurrance is not as common as you may think. After going thru such brutal treatments many patients (or caregivers) get anxious around scan times. This is completely normal to fear the worst after such a life changing event. Many patients and caregivers take anxiety meds to help them manage their fears. Talking with a therapist can do wonders to make it easier to handle.
Being a nurse you can probably have conversations with oncologists on a deeper level than the average patient or caregiver. Next time your husband goes for a check up, try asking the oncologist about these things. Im sure they can relate to you better than someone without a medical background.
Im very sorry to hear about your mother's diagnosis! Its extremely rare hearing about 2 members of a family having OC. Since your mother quit smoking, she is taking a positive step for her future. Her decision might just surprise you. I know treatments are not easy but some do get thru it easier than others. Ive noticed those who sail right thru are the ones who focus on their intake and have very minimal weight loss.
Being a caregiver is a tough job!!! Be kind to yourself and find some way to relax and get your mind off worrying, even if its just for a couple hours. It will help you manage all of this a little easier.
Best wishes!
ChristineSCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44 2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07 -65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr Clear PET 1/08 4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I surg 4/16/08 clr marg 215 HBO dives 3/09 teeth out, trismus 7/2/09 recur, Stg IV 8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy 3wks medicly inducd coma 2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit PICC line IV antibx 8 mo 10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg OC 3x in 3 years very happy to be alive |