I'm on the Gold Coast as well. I was diagnosed Triple Negative stage 3 with no lymph involvement. 41mm tumor resulting in a single mastectomy. Clear margins at the sides however only a 1.4mm clearance to the chest wall. Apparently they like 2.0mm. I am having FEC and Docataxol, 3 of each and I have just finished the FEC last week.
I'm now debating with my surgeon, my oncologist and a radiology oncologist whether I need radiation. One says no, one says borderline, one says borderline but they recommend it.
I tend to think like Annie that the cancer was removed and that chemo is my backup to make sure there aren't cells still floating around awaiting the chance to form more tumors. I don't believe in taking more medication than is necessary however there is always that lingering doubt about my decision to not have radiation. I have read and been informed that the statistics for radiation in my circumstances will give me an added 3% chance of non recurrence within 5 years. That is a very small statistic to want to undergo 25 rounds of radiation for.
