Mel,
It is different for everyone - my second primary (in other breast) was 6 years after the first triple negative.
2008 4mm grade 3 infiltrative ductal carcinoma withing 56mm DCIS treated with 3 x breast conserving surgery and 25 x radiation.
2015 16mm grade 2 invasive carcinoma treated with wide local excision and 20 x radiation. (again triple negative so no ongoing medication)
Was offered genetic testing after the second - with negative result.
I felt very thankful that it was "just" another primary and not secondary!
I also knew I could handle what ever treatment I was in for as I had done it before.
2015 I was offered chemo but as it only offered a 5% increase in survival I felt it was not worth it.
My biggest stress was a few weeks ago....had the two year mamo and ultrasound - the ultrasound operator would not comment on the outcome but stressed that I MUST attend my specialist appointment. That was 3 weeks away and during that time I was thinking the worst and had planned my reactions and possible treatment. I was not worrying but just getting my head around further treatment as I was sure that by the operator stressing I MUST attend the appointment that a problem had been found.
Had given up alcohol after the second cancer and was feeling pissed off that the huge effort was in vain.
Specialist said ALL CLEAR!
I was so relieved I burst into tears - was a mess the rest of the day and could not go back to work. Had to get my head around the FANTASTIC news.........that for me was the most emotional I have been in the 8 years.
Mel, you can get thru this latest hiccup as you did with the first one. I think Cancer has given me the knowledge that I can face whatever comes up. Great to vent on this forum and as previously stated, Cancer Council have great services available at no cost.
Beverley
