Usure what decision to make

zoe

Hi, I was diagnosed on the 13th of September 2024. I have had my surgery, a right breast mastectomy. I am now 3 weeks post-surgery, I met with an oncologist two days ago to have an informed discussion. As my cancer is classed as grade 2 (20mm) and (9mm) he has suggested that it is my decision to make in regards to having chemo or not. Due to the size, I sit on the border of grade 1 to 2 ( i think). He gave me the percentages and was told that the chemo would add 1.8% to my overall survival rate and then the tablets will add 2.3%

I am unsure of what decision to make?  I am feeling overwhelmed.

arpie

I am So sorry to see you join us here @zoe - we'll do our best to support you & answer any questions that you have.  I hope you are recovering well from your surgery.  

What was your diagnosis? Which type of BC is it?  Is it an 'invasive' one?  Was there any node involvement?

Where abouts are you? State/Town/Region?  You can add it to your profile by clicking on the image next to the 'envelope' in the top blue bar, far right hand side.  Knowing where you are, we can direct you to actual services in the area that may assist you now & in the future. xx

Do you have a Breast Care nurse assigned to you, that you can chat with her about it?  I HATE it when the health professional doesn't 'actually advise' you what to do .... You are under enough pressure as it is, without adding to the stress.   

I was lucky & didn't need chemo - but I DID have the option of either doing or not doing Radiation, as they were doing a trial on 'early stage BC' without Rads - but I wanted to throw the whole bus at it ..... and am glad I did.

There IS a actual test (Oncotype Dx Test) that you can do to positively see if chemo would 'help you' .... but I believe it is quite expensive - up to $5000.   Further down the line, I believe it should be available as part of your diagnosis/treatment plan ... maybe one day xx

I don't envy you your choice - but the fact that they've even suggested it as a part of your ongoing plan ... means maybe you should do it? It is such a difficult question - and a very personal choice.

take care & all the best 

Maybe ring out helpline & have a chat too - they may be able to explain things to you better than me  1800 500 258 (normal business hours) 

Also, jump onto this thread for lots of 'general' info on the forum that you may find helpful xx
https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/23477/a-big-welcome-to-all-new-online-network-members#latest

zoe

I was diagnosed with multifocal invasive. Lobular, 20mm, plus lobular carcinoma in Situ 4mm. There was no node involvement, hormone receptor positive.

I live in Kingscliff NSW just south of Tween Heads and yes i am in touch with a breast care nurse as well as a community nurse at the moment.

The oncologist did mention the test to me but the cost is expensive.

I may get in touch with the help line and discuss with them further. I still have mixed opinions and views from a whole range of people, doctors and nurses. I will just have to do what feels best for me.

Thank you for your response.

LJS

It's horrible having to make these decisions when it's all new and you're not the specialist. You have to gather as much (reliable) info as you can, trust in your instinct and what feels right for you (and what you can live with). 

I had ILC and had a lumpectomy in July and have just finished four week's radiotherapy. I feel good with my decisions and now wait to see my medical oncologist to discuss hormone treatment. I wish you all the best with your journey. It's a tough one.