chemo or no chemo
Hi everyone, I am new to this list. I am 60 and was diagnosed with breast cancer (ER+, PR-, HER2-, Grade 3, Stage 2) and had a mastectomy a couple of months ago. My oncologist recommends chemoth...
Forum Discussion
Hi @Emeraldgreen
I had chemo nearly 12 years ago, A/C and paclitaxel (the latter is a taxane, as is docetaxel). While I understand the concern about long term effects, I agree with others that the possibility of recurrence may be a greater concern. I was 67 when diagnosed, recent tests have shown that my liver, spleen and kidneys are in fine condition, I have had no problem with digestive issues and while surgery, chemo (more likely the A/C) and my age combined to tip my heart into an arrythmia, I continue free of any side effects, with a healthy heart function on minimal medication. Paclitaxel was probably responsible for peripheral neuropathy, affecting my feet. It doesn't affect everyone, most of those who are affected have a slight impact during treatment and it clears up afterwards.
It's hard to know how any individual will react to chemo. Nausea and fatigue are common and I didn't have either, I worked throughout treatment and felt fine. Two people on the same chemotherapy can have quite different reactions. Like many, I knew nothing about breast cancer when diagnosed and not much about cancer generally. I had (still have) a surgeon and an oncologist I trusted. I followed their advice and have never regretted it. No side effects at all would be great but cancer is difficult, complex and unforgiving. Throwing everything at it has given me 12 more years I might not have had (and hopefully more). That includes some memorable travel, a wonderful project at work for five years, a great deal of learning and two grandchildren. In return I take a few pills and can't sprint. Seems worth it to me. Best wishes for your continued recovery, whatever you choose.
I had chemo nearly 12 years ago, A/C and paclitaxel (the latter is a taxane, as is docetaxel). While I understand the concern about long term effects, I agree with others that the possibility of recurrence may be a greater concern. I was 67 when diagnosed, recent tests have shown that my liver, spleen and kidneys are in fine condition, I have had no problem with digestive issues and while surgery, chemo (more likely the A/C) and my age combined to tip my heart into an arrythmia, I continue free of any side effects, with a healthy heart function on minimal medication. Paclitaxel was probably responsible for peripheral neuropathy, affecting my feet. It doesn't affect everyone, most of those who are affected have a slight impact during treatment and it clears up afterwards.
It's hard to know how any individual will react to chemo. Nausea and fatigue are common and I didn't have either, I worked throughout treatment and felt fine. Two people on the same chemotherapy can have quite different reactions. Like many, I knew nothing about breast cancer when diagnosed and not much about cancer generally. I had (still have) a surgeon and an oncologist I trusted. I followed their advice and have never regretted it. No side effects at all would be great but cancer is difficult, complex and unforgiving. Throwing everything at it has given me 12 more years I might not have had (and hopefully more). That includes some memorable travel, a wonderful project at work for five years, a great deal of learning and two grandchildren. In return I take a few pills and can't sprint. Seems worth it to me. Best wishes for your continued recovery, whatever you choose.