Pelvic Exenteration

I am new to this site and not sure how it works. I am facing the decision to have or not have a Pelvic Exenteration. I was diagnosed with vaginal cancer in 2004. I had lymph node involvement, had many removed, radiation treatments along with chemo (Cisplatin), then a total hysterectomy and vaginectomy in January 2005. I have had many radiation effects but on the whole have had a great life since then. Last month I was diagnosed with recurring invasive vaginal cancer. My gynecological oncologist and another one I went to for a second opinion say this is my only option other than doing nothing. I saw that "Ialwaysworry" has had a PE. I would love to ask you questions, but have no idea how to contact you. There must be a way that we can e-mail privately, but I don't know how to do it on this site. So I am hoping I hear from "Ialwaysworry" and anyone else who has had this surgery, or has decided not to have it. Thank you. Dawna

PEdecision -

I am truly sorry to hear that your cancer has returned and you are facing a probable externation but I'm very glad that you found us here at HysterSisters.

There are many extremely knowledgeable and supportive women here that can provide experiences and insight.

Sending to you as you face this decision.

G.

Hi Dawna, I'm sorry your facing this decision but just know you are not alone. I have also had a TPE in Jan.this year. I went thru radiation and chemotherapy last year but my PET scan in Oct.09 showed a small amount at the original tumor site still active. A TPE was my only option in order to remove all cancer. I do not regret my decision even though there have been many rough spots along the way! I have a colostomy and a urostomy and they are very manageable in everyday life. If you would like to ask me any questions, I would be glad to share my experience with you as I'm sure Ialwaysworry would also. If you would like to e-mail privately,<email removed for member security>. I don't post very often but I keep up with all the sisters almost daily. It helps to know so many are sending you prayers and hugs.

Hi Dawna,

I, too, am sorry that you're having to face this. I haven't had a PE, but I have had vaginal cancer (2007) and was treated with radiation and chemo. Would you mind sharing the symptoms that you had when your cancer returned?

Also, I sent you a PM, so you can see if you're able to retrieve it.

Good luck with your decision, I know it's a difficult one to make.

PE:
If you highlight her name in the blue letters on any of her posts, you will see several options... One is to send a private e-mail. If she answers, when you log on (in the upper left part of the cancer forum) you will see your name. If she answers there will be a number by the private message area. Hope this helps.