To Chemo or not to Chemo

Hi .@Beachlady. I too had originally been diagnosed with a smaller tumour size (12mm) on mammogram and ultrasound but after surgery dx was 32mm tumour (similar size to yours) but 1 sentinel node involved out of 15 nodes. Stage 2b Grade 2, ER+, PR+ HER2-. Further treatment was delayed due to infection and a third surgery through same incision site. I was offered chemo and like you am really opposed to it. My Ki 67 was not recorded on pathology as it is not tested in Queensland according to my onc. I did want to do Endopredict to get an idea of recurrence risk but as treatment was already delayed I was strongly encouraged by my treatment team to go ahead with chemo. The only statistical figure I had to refer to was one through the online predict test which resulted in a 2.3% improvement in non reoccurance within the next 5 years, 7% improvement over 10 years. As other ladies here have posted it is a lottery and such a personal choice. I really struggled with the choice but with great support from family and friends and further support, experience and wisdom
from the ladies on this online network I chose to go ahead with chemo. I have had 2 cycles of FEC, with one more to come then 3 cycles of docetaxel. Chemo sucks as I'm sure everyone would agree and the side effects are different for everyone. Now however I have reconciled my choice as I don't want any regrets even if the lottery does go against me in the future. It is a very difficult decision to chose chemo if you are really opposed to it. Just know that support is out there and as I have experienced is readily available in bucket loads on this online network which ever choice you make. Sending you virtual hugs and hope that the meeting with your onc was productive. Sophie x