Ive seen several members go thru rads more than once. This is done on a case by case basis and is very detailed as to who qualifies to go for round II of rads. Also the time between 2nd diagnosis and when given rads plays a role in this as well. Most of us have had between 60 and 72 greys for rads. A second treatment with rads is usually a much smaller dose.

You may see many members here who have had recurrences, myself included. This is NOT a true reflection of how many patients really go thru it as many of the one timers move on and go back to their pre-cancer lives when recovered. Im surprised your doc said MEC recurrence rates are so high. Most doctors dont throw numbers around, especially about statistics as when studied in depth the numbers tend to change.

We all get concerned about recurrences. But, usually its after finishing rads while we are waiting for our next scan or check up we start going to the "what if's". That said, there is alot to be gained from that old adage of "not borrowing trouble." Over the years I have taught myself how to avoid the "what if" thinking. This helped me by taking so much unneeded stress off my shoulders. By focusing what is within my control and only entertaining those thoughts on a very limited basis it has helped tremendously. When you begin to worry about "what if" stop for a moment and check the time, then allow only a few minutes to think about this and then "change the channel" and get up and go do something positive that requires your concentration.


Im not downplaying your concerns at all so please understand Im just trying to help make everything you are going thru much easier for you and less stress from worrying makes it easier. By focusing on mainly whats within your control, your intake, it will help you get thru this easier and recover faster. Everything that might or might not happen down the road can wait til later. Ive provided you with some links. Maybe reading up on your illness will help you to better understand it so you can be a stronger advocate for yourself. Ive found that once I started reading and learning about OC, I would ask my doc completely different questions than when I first was diagnosed and said simply (and blushing, innocently).... "fix me."


Main OCF pages--- Statistics

NCI ... MEC Survival Outcomes


Main OCF pages--- Understanding section

Hope this helps and best wishes with everything!!!