Elizabeth Edwards’s cancer has gotten worse and her doctors have recommended against any additional treatment, her family announced Monday.

"Elizabeth has been advised by her doctors that further treatment of her cancer would be unproductive,” said the statement her family provided to NBC News. “She is resting at home with family and friends.”

Edwards was first diagnosed with cancer in 2004, and learned that the cancer had returned in 2007, as her husband John was preparing his presidential bid.

Family sources tell NBC News that doctors told Edwards last week that her cancer has reached the point where aggressive treatment is no longer advisable. She is receiving treatment for symptoms and is "not in pain," a friend said. "She is comfortable."

Although separated from his wife after news of his extramarital affair became public, former presidential candidate John Edwards is with her at their home in North Carolina, along with their children, extended family and friends, sources said. She remains well enough to receive visitors.

Friends described a "good atmosphere" in the Edwards home to NBC News.

On her Facebook page, Edwards posted the following message:

“You all know that I have been sustained throughout my life by three saving graces — my family, my friends, and a faith in the power of resilience and hope. These graces have carried me through difficult times and they have brought more joy to the good times than I ever could have imagined.

"The days of our lives, for all of us, are numbered. We know that. And, yes, there are certainly times when we aren't able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It's called being human. But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful and precious. And for that I am grateful.

"It isn't possible to put into words the love and gratitude I feel to everyone who has and continues to support and inspire me every day. To you I simply say: you know.

"With love, Elizabeth.”