Forum Discussion
Got told today chemo failed
Today I met with my surgeon, I'm booked in for right mastectomy and full node clearance for 15th August. He told me chemo has failed and done nothing. Hearing that had my head spinning. I've just spent six long months being poisoned with toxic shit for nothing. I'm due for my very last chemo next Tuesday and unless my oncologist can give me one good reason why I should do it, they can get f##ked. All I can think of is if for the last six months it's done nothing then where else has it spread in the meantime. I feel so pissed off right now and am in tears. Also he said the risk of lymphedema is high given I'll be having radiation as well. Does this mean you have it for life and permanently have to wear compression sleeve. I was told at the beginning of all this it would be just the sentinel node, but seeing as chemo failed the lot have to go. Screw CANCER, there is just so much to look forward to.
109 Replies
- We are all in this together, Lisa. Husbands, kids, dogs, jobs, mortgages...none of those things change our chances or our worth.
It's shit news about the tumour not shrinking, but what can you do? You take the advice and hope for the best. You've done what you can and I share your desire that the whole cluster-fuck goes away. - Sorry to hear that @LMK74. That's shitty news altogether. Hugs to you xxx Lesley
- Well it's official. Pathology results of mastectomy confirm my tumor had no response whatsoever to chemo. Cancer was still active after six months of poison. Did however achieve clear margins and only 2 nodes positive out of axillary clearance. Leaves me wondering of it could've gone elsewhere. Oh well shit happens as they say. Have appointment in two weeks with my oncologist and will discuss the likelihood then. Either way, my attitude is what is, is. No point worrying as it's just me, no hubbie, no kids. Just want to put this shit behind me.
- As above, that is shitty news...I did have lymph nodes removed and no problem so far - however it is always something that we need to be aware of as it can hit you at any time (wear gloves when gardening, no scratches on that side). I didn't actually know this until I went to a conference...I am so complacent but a bit more protective now.
- Many people who have had Herceptin had few if any side effects. Yes you are back on a three weekly drip and your veins may get fed up, but it's mostly time intensive and not side effect intensive.
- @LucyE Ohhh gee I've been there and it's just so hard, and I had no support really, so it's great to try and give back and help settle, there's so much fear in the unknown. I had a really hard time, I wish I had the forum at that time, because everyone is just so helpful and supportive. xx
- I think reading alot about it does make it worse, I found talking direct to the Oncologist with questions I had would settle me very quickly. Those with Her2 have Herceptin after Chemo, I have friends that had it, it's not like Chemo though. Lots of ladies on here have had it. I'd wait til friday, as pathology is the best way to know whats what moving forward, otherwise you drive yourself mad trying to be ahead of the whatifs. I've been where you are and its hard! but once things become clear and you start your direction you actually settle, it's the not knowing makes it worse. I do know though, you will absolutely be ok. Hang in there, let us know how you go Friday. Hugs Melinda xo
- @melclarity I am Her2 positive grade 3. I don't fancy an extra year of anything! We are still waiting to see if I am ER pos or neg due to mixed results and am PR neg. Pathology results on Friday should settle some questions or at least provide a direction. I think reading cancer stuff is making me more anxious. ☹
