Forum Discussion

Sue_in_FNQ's avatar
Sue_in_FNQ
Member
11 years ago

DO need Chemo after all

Well, talk about bursting one's bubble.

After being told that there was no need for chemo, radiation or further surgery, last week I received the news that changed all that.

My Oncologist apologised .... said that her colleague had misinformed me when he delivered a premature report ... that his recommendation for no further treatment (other than Tamoxifen) was based on the Pathology results of the ILC in my left breast only.  But once they discovered the ILC and LCIS in my right breast tissue ALSO - that changed everything.

(Reminder - I elected to have a bilateral mastectomy on 30 July, even though cancer was only diagnosed in the one breast .... and then they found invasive cancer in BOTH).

So ... I do need chemo after all.  Four rounds of TC, every 21 days.  No, it won't be pleasant ... but it is do-able.

I just wish I had been given the correct recommendation right from the start, when I was emotionally prepared for the "you need chemo" talk.

Ah well ... it is what it is !

Have had all the pre-chemo appointments ... Bone Scan = clear ..... CT chest/abdo/pelvis = a couple of nodules found on my right lung less than 5mm in size so too small to biopsy - "we'll have to keep an eye on them".

We still get to go on our bucket-list-holiday to Canada and Alaska next week ... and I'm booked in for round # 1 chemo two days after we return.  Sooo grateful to be able to enjoy a holiday before this next stage of treatment.

I send my best wishes to each of my BC sisters xx

3 Replies

  • Hazel_M's avatar
    Hazel_M
    Member
    11 years ago

    After surgery the surgeon was very happy that he got clear margins and no node involvement. I ASSumed that meant no chemo, silly me! It was recommended that I should have 3 x FEC and 3 x Taxol because of a terrible family history and just to mop up as they put it. I was never told I wouldn't be having it, so I don't know why I assumed that I wasn't. I know your situation is different in that you were told incorrectly but I know what you mean about the emotional side of things. I had some trouble on chemo and as Robyn said, the one you are having may not cause you much trouble. I have a love/hate relationship with chemo. It defintely helps and is the most effective medicine we have at the moment, shame about the side effects. I am 5 months post chemo and doing great, my hair is growing back and I'm returning to work soon. You sound very positive and I'm sure you'll cope, one day at a time. Have a wonderful holiday in Canada, all the best, 

    Hazel xx

  • mgndam1603's avatar
    mgndam1603
    Member
    11 years ago

    I too had a similar experience, my oncologist originally told me no chemo and then they found results that inidcated my cancer was aggressive so chemo was required. Also through my CT scan they found I had a tumour in my kidney so chemo may help shrink that.

    Like you I had moved past the thought of needing chemo so was completely thown by the requirement.

    Unlike the lovely Robyn I had major issues, but I do think that is not the norm, most find the 4 rounds of TC alot more doable.

    Enjoy your lovely holiday, what a great thing to do before treatment starts.

    Sending you hugs

    Donna

  • Robyn_W's avatar
    Robyn_W
    Member
    11 years ago
    Hello Sue:) I understand how you are feeling.I was told initially that I 'probably' wouldn't need chemo.I took this as ' you won't need chemo!' When the oncologist called me to say that after looking at everything,she wanted me to have 4 rounds of TC,I was pretty shocked.But do you know what? It wasn't that bad:) I know that a lot of ladies wouldn't agree,but I think that 4 rounds of TC is easier to tolerate than ,say,3fec and then 3 taxol.I am still adamant that attitude and exercise plays a huge part in how the MAJORITY of us cope with chemo.For me,it was the tiredness that floored me the most,and the skin rashes (not really a big deal) changes in food likes/dislikes.Have a great holiday in Canada/Alaska.Our son lives there,and we have been a couple of times .It is absolutely gorgeous.When you come back,you will be physically healed and emotionally ready to start chemo.Take care.CheersxoxRobyn