Radiation decision
Hello everyone, I was diagnosed 5 months ago with stage 3 triple positive (er+, pr+, and Her2+). I was told I needed the full package deal - surgery, 6 months chemo, radiation, Herceptin for 1 year...
Forum Discussion
Hi @micaela, I can totally relate to the ‘grey area’ as I was also in it. I didn’t even know there was such a thing. I had ILC, did neoadjuvent chemo followed by a BMX (my choice) and I continue to take an AI. Pathology showed clear lymph nodes, clear margins and no LVI and from what I understand, I had a good response to chemo. I knew from diagnosis that I would do whatever was recommended - I did not want to have any regrets. I was prepared to throw everything at it. My breast care nurse was excellent and really reinforced my thinking.
I was referred to the radiation oncologist to have what I thought was a conversation about ‘why I wouldn’t be having radiation’ as I had already had the BLX. My area of ILC was 4.8 cm which is where the grey area came in - over 5cm puts radiation in the equation. In the words of the radiation oncologist ‘I am comfortable with you having radiation and I am comfortable with you not having it.’ He actually could not really say if there was going to be a benefit given the ‘good’ pathology results. They are the exact words and I actually left his rooms and cried because I felt like I didn’t really get an answer. I felt like I was asked if I wanted sauce on my pie - it was there if I wanted it. ‘
My oncologist actually contacted the radiation oncologist to try and get some clarity for me and in the end I said no to radiation and all my medical team were okay with the decision.
My diagnosis really rocked me and I was pretty devastated, but then I just got on with the business.
I think everyone is very different and I can see that in the 2 years since my diagnosis, protocols have changed and improved. Take care 🌸