May 14, 2009 Oncologist Meeting on Chemo

Hi Everyone,

We met with the oncologist yesterday and he basically went over the same information that my general surgeon went over with us... that I was in the intermediate range, that it was a real toss up, and that no one really knows the answer on what is best. He said 5 years ago they would have definitely recommended chemo, but they are not so sure about this intermediate category anymore, which is why there is a new study being done on it by UAB. My general surgeon had also told us about the clinical study where they randomly divide the group of women in half. One half takes chemo and the other half does not and then they will study what happens to this group of women. Again, my general surgeon leaned against me doing the chemo. The oncologist said it was up to me, but felt chemo would probably give me a 3-4% improvement, but only I could decide if that percentage was worth it to me.

He then offered to call the doctor in charge of the UAB study to see if I could get into the study and also to see what she would advise for my circumstances. She advised chemo, because she said that I am in the higher end of the intermediate range, but if I did the study it would be randomly chosen as to who would and would not receive chemo. He again reminded me that no one really knows what is best in this particular group, proven by the fact that they are conducting this test and allowing 50% of the women in this group to not take chemo. In other words, if they knew chemo would help them, they would not allow 50% of the women not to take it.

I told him that I would let him know by the end of the week after I have had time to think and pray about it. Fortunately, Monica is in the same building and she is going to verify that we are correct in our understanding of what they are telling us. With our current understanding, John and I are leaning against having the chemo treatments. If this holds true, then I will give them the decision tomorrow (or I may wait until Monday to pray on it over the weekend) that we are ready to move forward with the hormonal therapy and forego the chemo treatments. Either way, I will let you all know when my "final answer" comes. A friend and I were talking last night and discussed that it would have been so easy if the test had come down on one side or the other; however, he reminded me that the intermediate range is what keeps me dependent on trusting God with my decision and future. We all know that everything is in His hands regardless, and that applies to all of us. That is a very comforting thought for which we can all be thankful! Thank you again for all of your prayers. God is hearing them and trust me that I know He is answering them. To God be the glory forever and ever! Love to all, Liz