new diagnosis

jomaree
jomaree Member Posts: 12
edited December 2018 in Newly diagnosed
New to this so not sure if i'm in the right place. Diagnosed in October, have had 2 surgeries. Lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy and 2 weeks ago axiliary dissection. Have seen the medical oncologist and know I will have hormone therapy as oestrogen + also radiation therapy still waiting for appointment. Oncologist says my choice to have Chemo but not recommended as only 1% advantage for survival. My head says listen and follow medical advise but my gut is saying go for it, need to give an answer by next week. So confused.
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Comments

  • Caccal
    Caccal Member Posts: 12
    Its a hard one. Percentages and odds. I haven't got advice but wishing you well xx 
  • primek
    primek Member Posts: 5,392
    Have they offered you Oncotype Dx testing. This is a better indication if chemo is a a good idea or not. 

    This explains it. It is costly but it might well be worth it.

    https://www.bcna.org.au/news/2018/06/new-research-findings-confirm-the-benefit-of-the-oncotype-dx-tumour-profiling-test/

    1% is a small benefit but we all get that concern of lets do it anyway. Kath x
  • SoldierCrab
    SoldierCrab Member Posts: 3,445
    thanks @Zoffiel
    for tagging me on the activity page Jomaree had already started this discussion before you tagged me ... So I am tagging you ..... 

    @jomaree are you ok with working out the discussion boards? now ? 

    Below are a couple of links to help you find your
    way around the forum and also how to find a breast care nurse and how to order
    a MY journey Kit if you haven't got one yet. 



    It can be a whirlwind when we first get a
    diagnosed.... Breathe and take it one step at a time. 



    How to post on the main forum – use this
    link to get to the main forum and begin a new post. https://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/post/discussion

     

    Navigating the online community formerly the
    what and how thread.

    http://onlinenetwork.bcna.org.au/discussion/14879/navigating-the-online-community-formerly-the-what-and-how-thread

    Breast Care Nurses

    https://www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au/OurMission/OurNurses/FindANurse.aspx 

    My Journey online tool and other resources. 

    My Journey Online Tool resources

    https://myjourney.org.au/hp/step5

    https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/

    BCNA Helpline 1800 500 258

    If you have any questions, concerns or require any further
    information or support please call 1800 500 258. BCNA’s helpline will now be open from
    9am-6pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 5pm Fridays.  

     

    How to understand your pathology
    reports

    https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/tests/understanding-your-pathology-report/breast-pathology/breast-cancer-pathology.html
  • SoldierCrab
    SoldierCrab Member Posts: 3,445
    Jomaree 
    it is never an easy choice but going with your inner voice is so important to our mental health in the long term ... 
    we have your back girl 

  • iserbrown
    iserbrown Member Posts: 5,540
    @jomaree
    Best wishes for your treatment!

    Image result for funny cancer image
  • kmakm
    kmakm Member Posts: 7,974
    Well done on making a very difficult decision @jomaree. I'm a big believer in listening to one's inner voice, your gut. I remember ignoring it a few times in my early to mid 20s and vowing to never ignore it again. Women are schooled by the patriarchy to downplay our natural instincts, but they are powerful and we are more in touch with them than we often credit.

    We are with you through chemo. You've got this! And we've got you. When you know which chemo you'll be having, let us know so those who've had the same can chime in with advice if needed.

    Not everyone has a ghastly time on chemotherapy. For the bulk it's a middling affair. By no means pleasant, but doable. Keep your eyes on the prize, a cancer free life. Big hug, K xox
  • arpie
    arpie Member Posts: 7,521
    You have a plan .... you've made the tough decision ... go with it & all the best xxx
  • jomaree
    jomaree Member Posts: 12
    Thanks so much for your support. Not sure when I start but already know it is adjuvant TC (docetaxel and cyclophosphamide0 every 21 days for four cycles. Have always gone for what everyone else suggested in situations in my life and have learnt the hard way that I should have listened to myself. This is my illness and my choice I'm doing this for me because I know it feels right.
  • kmakm
    kmakm Member Posts: 7,974
    Bloody good on you @jomaree.

    I had TC, feel free to ask any questions if/when you have them. K xox
  • primek
    primek Member Posts: 5,392
    I expect your stress is less now you have made the decision to go ahead with chemo. My personal thoughts were I didn't want to look back in  2 years and regret not giving it my best shot.
  • jomaree
    jomaree Member Posts: 12
    that is me don't want the what ifs and maybes

  • Shellshocked2018_
    Shellshocked2018_ Member Posts: 283
    Wishing you all the best for treatment.
    Listening to your inner voice I find is always the best for me.
    You can do this !
    sending cyber hugs your way ❤️
  • Doin'it
    Doin'it Member Posts: 377
    So pleased you went with your gut feeling @jomaree. I did TC & it’s not pleasant but it’s doable. I’m nearly 7 months since diagnosis, chemo, radiation & hormonal treatment (Letrozole) & feeling great. Sending you hugs