August 2009 - take call from mum in car on way back ffrom working in Shropshire. Mentions she has had ultrasound on lumps in neck as she'd been getting a lot of pain in her lymphatic arm. Also has nasty rash on back that won't shift. "Don't worry they don't think its cancer". Great. (nb: Mum had breast cancer 7 years ago but was out of her remission period and had been given all clear 2 years previously)
Following week secondary breast cancer confirmed in lymph nodes, skin and bones.
First chemotherapy stopped after two cycles as doing nothing (apart from making mum iller). Rash contines to spread over body. All control of movement in lymphatic arm lost. Pain medicine increased.
Second chemotherapy stopped after two cycles as doing nothing. Pain medicine increased.
Radiotherapy given to lymph nodes in neck to control pain in arm. Told no further treatment will be given. Radiotherapy DOES help pain but unfortunatley doesn't give any increased movement in arm.
U turn and start course of Xeloda to help rash. 2 weeks on, one week off.
After one course treatment changed to one week on, one week off to help control side affects. SLIGHT IMPROVEMENT IN RASH!!!! Treatment continues (now maybe on third course) and bisphospherates given monthly for bone mets.
Recently Lymphodemia has began developing in 'good' hand. Why? Nobody knows - no lymph nodes removed there. Not good sign.
Last Friday = scan. Awaiting results. Worried. 'Bad day' yesterday. Condition generaly not good. Waiting is horrible. Not sure if there is anything else they can try.
