Tarceva

From what I've read about Tarceva, it is rarely a long-term course of treatment. Eventually, the cancer becomes immune to Tarceva and the patient has to move on to something else. In the past, Tarceva was used as a second line treatment, but oncologists have been starting to use it as first line treatment in people whose cancers are genetically responsive to it (which mom's was).

Mom's cancer was responsive to Tarceva at first. The tumors initially shrunk. However, the tumors have grown again (though not spread, thankfully) and the blood clot/bloody cough were thought to be side effects of the Tarceva...so she was taken off the meds. From reading around the internet, there are plenty of other things to try. It just depends on how hard she wants to fight, how much she is willing to suffer, and the quality of life she wants for her remaining time.

Numerous meds/oral chemos I've read about coming out the pharmaceutical companies these days: Avastin, Iressa...the list goes on.

Also, something positive to focus on: http://www.crazysexycancer.com/. I've seen her speak at a sales conference and also on Oprah. She was diagnosed with terminal cancer and given only months to live, but she has survived years. A positive outlook, healthy diet, and exercise have helped her stay alive and healthy today. Her positive outlook is inspiring.