Forum Discussion

SueVR's avatar
SueVR
Member
13 years ago

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

Hi,

I am new to all this - having just being diagnosed with Stage 3 multi-focal locally advanced Triple-negative breast cancer. I have ten lumps in the right breast with the largest being 5cm and positive testing to the lymph nodes.

I am 46 and have just commenced neoadjuvant chemotherapy with weekly paclitaxel. I was wondering if anyone else out there had taken the neoadjuvant chemo as part of their treatment plan.

The onconcologist is concerned about the possibility of the cancer spreading so wants to treat that first.

chemotherapy
lymphoedema
triple-negative-breast-cancer
  • serenity11's avatar
    serenity11
    Member
    13 years ago

    I too have TN, but my is metaplastic. But I wanted to let you know that I am in Brisbane and under the care of Paul Mainwarring if you every feel the need for a chemosaubie or just someone to talk to. There are a few of us that meet for a coffee once a week and I have found it an invaluable source of support. Although I am the only one with TNMBC. Take care. You can do this. Toni

  • Nicca_Grant's avatar
    Nicca_Grant
    Member
    13 years ago

    Hi Sue, welcome to the BCNA online network.

    Neo-adjuvant chemotherapy is common for women with locally advanced breast cancer.  If you haven't found it already, we have a webpage dedicated to locally advanced breast cancer that you might find helpful. 

    I hope this answers some of the questions you might have.  Please keep us updated on how your treatment goes; we will be thinking of you and wishing you well. 

    Nicca

  • TonyaM's avatar
    TonyaM
    Member
    13 years ago

    Welcome to this network but sorry to hear about your diagnosis.I recently went to the BCNA conference and several doctors spoke about advantages of giving chemo before surgery.I guess it depends on the size/type of  cancer and your oncologist's view.They hope to shrink it prior surgery but more importantly,see evidence/proof that your cancer is responding to the particular chemo ordered for you.I've had breast cancer twice and each time I had surgery first and I must say I wanted it cut out pronto! So I understand your concern but I can see the advantages of knowing that the chemo is working.Many women are having chemo before surgery so you are not alone.Blog back here any time for info and support or to vent your fears and frustrations.We know what you are going through.

                           Sending hugs,Tonya xx