Hi Kazza,
It's a hard decision that only you can make I'm afraid.
In my case, I had a 40mm tumour hormone receptor positive and due to the size the medical oncologist recommended chemo. There was also the possibility of not have chemo but having a different hormone therapy instead but i went with their statistics that the chemo was the best way to prevent recurrences. As a second tumour was found in the breast tissue as well, I'm also having radiotherapy late in the year. This will all be followed up with hormone treatment. I know I'm more fortunate than a lot of others out there. But as far as I was concerned, I went with the better stats. I'm 48 with two teenagers.
As far as the chemo side-effects are concerned, I'm having AC treatment. There are so many side effects that don't effect everyone but you get told about all. The anti nausea meds are pretty amazing at being able to keep an appetite. I get tired but I've been walking every day and doing the post op pilates dvd. The hair loss is confronting especially when it's falling out in your hands (I won't lie). I had it cut short to a pixie to adjust and as I've had that hairstyle before, it wasn't too bad. I would recommend a wig early on to a similar style to what you have already.
I've taken leave from my teaching position since surgeries and especially during chemo as immunity will be low facing a class of 28 students during flu season. Psychologically, I'm still coming to terms with the whole cancer diagnosis, when I felt fit, healthy, ran and did zumba, coached soccer teams etc. I know it's a similar experience for many. We're not sick, but it's the treatment that makes us feel sick. I know this feeling is temporary.
All the best with your decision Kazza,
Big hugs,
Karen xx
