Disappointed and confused by the system
I should start by saying I am almost 73 and have had a lifetime of excellent health (apart from hysterectomy a couple of years ago) and never expected to be dealing with this. Mammograms stopped a few...
Forum Discussion
Welcome to the site. Yes the beginning is the whirlwind with tests and confusion.
I went through the public system as I did want that team approach. It's not too late to have a recferal to that team if you prefer.
Even though you don't want chemo and have researched really it's always best to have all the facts laid bare by the oncologist. Asking questions about recurrence etc are best dealt by tbe oncologist. Your pathology is the biggest part of the decision. Have you got that back yet. Normally 10 days post surgery. You can request a copy of all scans, and results done.
Breast cancers are all unique. Some are managed with hormone therapy only. Others really do need chemo to stop it in its tracks. As you said 73 and healthy. No reason to believe you wouldn't cope with chemo and go on to live a very long life, if that's what they recommend. Regimes are determined on the pathogy, the health and the best outcomes for that patient.
I have a new bc sister friend I met through chemo. We had same pathology. However as she is 20 years older than me she was on a slightly different regime and coped very well and now off caravanning with hubbie...moving back on with her wonderful life. She is 74.
Time frames for starting next phase if surgery are important. Please contact the oncology team referred to and push yourself up tbe list...stressing nodes and when surgery done etc.
Have you a breast care nurse as yet?
They can help you navigate the system.
Kath x
I went through the public system as I did want that team approach. It's not too late to have a recferal to that team if you prefer.
Even though you don't want chemo and have researched really it's always best to have all the facts laid bare by the oncologist. Asking questions about recurrence etc are best dealt by tbe oncologist. Your pathology is the biggest part of the decision. Have you got that back yet. Normally 10 days post surgery. You can request a copy of all scans, and results done.
Breast cancers are all unique. Some are managed with hormone therapy only. Others really do need chemo to stop it in its tracks. As you said 73 and healthy. No reason to believe you wouldn't cope with chemo and go on to live a very long life, if that's what they recommend. Regimes are determined on the pathogy, the health and the best outcomes for that patient.
I have a new bc sister friend I met through chemo. We had same pathology. However as she is 20 years older than me she was on a slightly different regime and coped very well and now off caravanning with hubbie...moving back on with her wonderful life. She is 74.
Time frames for starting next phase if surgery are important. Please contact the oncology team referred to and push yourself up tbe list...stressing nodes and when surgery done etc.
Have you a breast care nurse as yet?
They can help you navigate the system.
Kath x