Decisions about Radiation.

I had radiation following a lumpectomy and full node clearance back in 2003.I had one 2cm lump,eostrogen+ve.grade 2 and all clear lymph nodes.My doctor said she got a clear margin.Chemo was offered as an optional extra giving me only a 1%help.I declined and tried to take Tamoxifen for a few months which nearly drove me insane so stopped that. 7 years later cancer came back in the same spot,same breast.It was a 3cm area that grew in one year. I can't help but wonder if the radiation may have fuelled it to that size.I was told I was in the unlucky 8%that gets it back despite radiation.Now that I've had a mastectomy I can't have an expander cos my skin won't stretch.I could only have a diep reconstruction.I have a constant sensation of having duck tape across my chest and I have a sore rib where my bra rubs as a result of radiation.Otherwise no heart or lung problems.I got very tired about half way through radiation and my boob was glowing like a hot plate!But luckily it didn't break down -saw some terrible burns on some ladies though.

I guess you just have to ask all the questions.I 'd want to know how they keep a check on a reconstructed boob if a local recurrance happens.And this is a stupid one:-wouldn't radiation melt the expander or alter it's chemical composition?Ultimately go with your gut feeling Amanda.

Isn't that Taxotere a fun ride!!!!not!!!!

                                           Tonya xx