Bladder Cancer

[nevart]

I have a sister who was diagnosed with bc, stage 4, 4 years ago. She has had surgery to remove the bladder, has a new bladder made from her intestines. she has to evacuate 24/7, has had multiptle series of chemo blood clots, etc.
My question -- does anyone have a suggestion as to how to talk to her about her prognosis. She lives alone, is independently wealthy, will NOT have anyone inthe house to help her, does not tell the doctor that she is terrified about her disease. My other sister and I live away from her, and we want her to live closer to either one of us so that we can help her.
I know this is a long, complicated question, but is there anyone out there who has dealt with a loved one who is in denial about this disease despite have suffered as she has these four years.
thank you.

[mauiman]

I wish I could offer some help, but the best I can come up with is to find other individuals that have survived that might keep her spirits lifted? Not sure what trying to convince her she is going to die will do for her. We all die... may as well keep as upbeat as possible while we're here.

[pnorten462]

Bladder cancer is treatable, follow the doctors' instructions. As far as home remedies, try laughter, the endorphins released seem to strengthen the immune system. Also lots of love. Rent some comedies from her generation, get a few pieces of dark chocolate (not milk) for when she needs a fix.


Some people have mild side effects, but I've had none whatsoever (knock wood). There are a few that have severe side-effects and don't tolerate BCG. There are other localized treatments options as well (e.g. mitomycin, interferon). I think these work on the same principle as BCG, i.e., to stimulate the immune system response in your bladder to "attack" abnormal cells.