Cindy, there's just no way to predict anyone's life expectancy, no matter how many facts you have. Some women live for many years with stage IV breast cancer. Others don't. Which group will your friend be in? No one knows. Until they stop treating her - i.e., they stop the chemo or Herceptin or anything else she's taking - they still have hopes that she'll live. It's when they stop treatment and suggest hospice that you know her time is limited.   All of that said, I'm sure this diagnosis makes you realize your time with her — everyone's time with her — is all the more precious, because it might very well be limited. Treat each meeting as if it's the last - not with sorrow, but with joy that she's still with you. Be thankful for each day with her. And pray and hope for the best outcome possible. Good luck to you both - PJH