So I have Stage 4 colon cancer.

[Tab]

12. Sorry to hear that, I'm going through the same thing

Colon cancer with mets to both lungs, though small. Did FOLFOX the first time around (pre-stage IV), FOLFIRI this time.

If you're looking for warm and fuzzy reassurance on Stage IV CC w/mets to lungs, the Internet is not the place to be looking. I went through a similar freak-out, but as I settle into it, I actually find the FOLFIRI more tolerable than that damned oxyplatin. At least my hands aren't freezing and I can taste food. I'm not on Avastin though.

My big problem now is my platelets are taking a beating.

Interesting thing is that what we have is considered on the rarer side - CC usually spreads to the liver, not often the lungs. That said, the long-term prognosis is not good. I'm hoping I hit the 5-year mark, because we caught it "early", as were watching it via PET scans (as I presume you have since you said it was tiny), but I'm not making plans more than 12-15 years out.

It's curious, though, how it refocuses your life. If you can, try to harness the focus you get. I would suggest continuing with school if your medical schedule allows. I work full-time, even though I spend Tuesday's getting chemo and the next two days wearing an infusion pump. I think to sit at home and sink into depression would be worse. I'd be a basket case. Instead, I feel oddly energized, with a purpose.

Please PM me (DU mail) if you want to chat offline about this.

- t