Saying no to chemo - thoughts?

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7. Sorry, just seeing your message now

(just enmeshed in my own problems)

As for a port, I have one (actually it's my second, we removed the first after we thought I was "cured&quot . It beats the hell out of getting regular IV's. If you have any expectation of need of continued intravenous medication, a port makes all the difference.

As far as, should you do chemo? That's up to you. Personally I'm doing chemo, but I've had some drugs that were so debilitating that I ultimately dropped them - extending the quantity of life does nothing for me if the quality sucks. I accept a reduced quality of life as a result of the illness, but if I can't actually function, then what's the point?

If you've decided not to, I support it. If you're unsure, I'd say try it, and if life improves, great. It's not a yes-or-no deal - you get to test drive for as long as you like. And if you stop liking the ride, it's your option to stop.

I may do that myself; if this next series of stuff is really negative, I may stop and let the clock run out, no longer feeling invincible but at least free of hospitals and debilitating treatments. On the other hand, if I tolerate it, I'll keep going. I'm under no illusions that I'll be here 15 years from now, but I've already passed my expiration date, so who knows?

Best with whatever you decide. Make the decision that gives you the most happiness.