What does "barely stage 4" cancer mean and what are my treatment options?

Rachel, I am so sorry for your diagnosis. It’s a lot to process all at once. Keep in mind you are young and healthy. Stay positive, write down your questions & concerns. Speak with your navigator and medical team. Be careful if you do research to stick to the American Cancer Society websites. You have so much to live for and your doctors need to learn who you are as well as your cancer to help you plot your journey. Sending you hugs and prayers you stay strong and fight for yourself. Give yourself some grace as you embark on this fight❣️one day at a time❣️❣️❣️

Rachel, I’m 78 with stage 4 MBC. The doctor said the cancer has gone into some of my bones. No IV chemo, surgery or radiation! Instead I’m on a pill, Kisqali. It’s amazing I feel wonderful and look almost normal, a few minor side effects after eight months (some rash and hair thinning) but compared to my friend having chemo now and being very sick with severe side effects, I’m far better off. Ask your doctor for oral chemotherapy pills first. They have far fewer side effects and I only see the doctor once a month for blood tests. My meds are for post menopausal females, but there are similar options.

I am 60 and also have oligometastic breast cancer only two spots mammary chain lymphnoids in my chest. Dr put me on Kisqali & Faslodex, been on for 18 months tumor shrinking and no new ones. Hopefully next scans NEAD. If I went for surgery that would delay treatment so they said no. And it would take away one of my last lines of treatment. I feel good and am thankful for these oral medications that are working. Everyone treatment and journey is different speak with your doctors. Hoping the best for you!

I was told I am “barely a 4” and because it is not in organs and bones yet and I am young thats why they want to treat aggressively to give me the best chance at remission and hoping if it comes back it will be in many years from now….then I can take more of the stabilize with meds for as long as they work/can be tolerated approach. I am scared….a year of really hard stuff and putting my body thru hell to maybe get better 🤷🏼‍♀️ In the past two months I have radically changed my diet, lost 24 lbs, got my cycles back to normal and feel great….so this is a hard pill to swallow.

Hi Rachel. What huge decisions you have in front of you. I know you are already at an excellent cancer center but have you considered a 2nd opinion? Just to make sure every option has been explored before you decide? Maybe UNC Linberger Comprehensive Cancer Center? Keep us posted on how you’re doing. 💛 Suzanne (Community Moderator)

Hi Rachel, I am stage 4 also with hot spots on my shoulder blades. No chemo and no radiation; Kizquali, Letrozole, and Zometa IV infusions (and on an anti-inflammatory diet). Glory to God, I feel great and no progression. I am almost 2 years in and holding steady. I am praying for you. Please ask questions and if the doctor is not supportive, research for others! There is no one size fits all approach, so know your body and fight hard for what is best for YOU and your family❤️

Good luck Rachel, you have some big decisions. Read the American Cancer Society website for more information. You have to make a decision based on what is best for you. You’re young and healthy and losing weight and changing diet I’m sure has already helped you. Prayers for your health.

CDK-4 inhibitor and next generations are definitely a good option if your scores indicate. Please get more information and look at alternative support if you do Chemo etc. fasting protocol and tailored dosing.

Stage 4 cancer classifications can vary, and "barely stage 4" typically refers to cancer that has just met the criteria for stage 4, often with limited spread. This diagnosis understandably brings many questions about treatment approaches and how to balance medical decisions with family and farm responsibilities. Many community members have navigated similar treatment decisions while managing young children and demanding responsibilities, so connecting with others who understand these challenges can provide valuable perspective and support during this difficult time.