[EEKappa]

Carnation, I am so sorry to hear about your father in law. I hope that he is somewhat comfortable.

To answer your question re: radiation. My only experience is my step-dad's. He first had prostate cancer in '92, which was treated with radiation. The radiation created some gastro-intestinal obstructions, which when inspected revealed stomach cancer in '94. He's also had several occurrences of invasive skin cancer on his temple in the past five years, which was also treated with radiation. Though this treatment has created problems above and beyond the cancer, we are thankful that he is still with us (at 85) and enjoys some quality of life.

A co-worker beat stage 4 breast cancer 9 years ago with chemo and a stem cell transplant. She's been healthy and vigorous until just now, when hysterectomy revealed ovarian cancer. She's off for more chemo, but as her doctor said "Last time you were on fire, this time you're just smoldering."

Hugs to you and your family at this difficult time.