No chemo

Hi Sue, thanks for your input and good luck with the rest of your treatment.

So true Christine

Thanks Piak.

it isn't testing for BRCA, - (there isn't a Medicare rebate for that either but the familial cancer clinics will not bill the patients). The test I meant was the Oncocarta test which looks at markers on the excised tumour. I think that is only helpful in changing management in a small number of cases and would rather spend the $ on a holiday!

Thanks Chris, that was useful.

thanks for your input and wishes. It sounds like we have a fairly similar story. I am glad to not have chemo, just that little seed of worry that is lessening over time.

Absolutely - mine was in my sentinal node which made the decision less clear cut and I am still (relatively) young at 50 so the 20 year rates are what I am thinking about. However the further I get away from the active treatment, the less I am thinking/worrying about it.

Thanks for your thoughts.

Thanks Deanne,

It does help and I know you are right. I am doing everything I can about the things I can control - diet, exercise, keeping a healthy weight and beyond that, it is what it is.

Hi!  I am one of those that didn't have chemo.  We are all unique in our diagnosis and subsequent treatments.  My tumour was 50mm.

As you say you are starting to second guess and that is where worry comes in.  The professionals will give you the best possible advice on the best possible course for you.

There is some great advice on this site both in this post and in the drop down boxes above.

Try not to worry!

Take care

Christine

Hi J

I had my lumpectomy last year, the invasive lobular carcinoma was very small (1mm) margin and sentinel nodes were clear.

The surgeon and specialist team recommended radiation only no Chemo or hormone.

Even my eldest sister died of BC (20 years ago) at 61 but no other members of my family apart from I has any kind of cancer. After discussion with my surgeon who is also involved in many reaseach projects on BC, he did not think that it is a genetic cause but rather old age that trigger gene mutation (In Australia1 in 8 women over 60 year will definitely has it) hence, he did not recommend genetic test.

I also read research papers widely (still do) so I am comfortable with just radiation and do not worry much because I will still be checked by the surgeon every 6 months, any change should be picked up early.

However, it's your health so it is best to discuss with your treatment team which should help with the choice you are happy with.

Piak