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Hi Debbie,

These are awful decisions to make -collect all the info and personal stories but ultimately go with what sits right for you.I had lumpectomy,full node clearance and radiation in 2003 at the age of 47.I was presented with the same choices and at the time I wasn't ready to lose a breast.However,last year cancer came back in the same breast,same spot.I was in the unlucky 8%who get cancer back despite radiation.I had no choice this time but to have a mastectomy followed by chemo.I accepted losing the breast this time and I don't know if that's my age(55)or what.After radiation my breast was never the same- always a discomfort and alot smaller than the other. But at least it filled the bra and even had abit of cleavage.It was just for show .With a mastectomy,it's harder to look down and see nothing where your boob used to be.You can't wear any low necklines but the prothesis is really good.I'm reluctant to have a reconstruction at the moment cos I can't stand another op.(4 in last 3yrs)and I am paranoid cancer might come back along the scarline.So am watching it.Down the track I may change my mind I probably don't have much elasticity in my skin because of the radiation.

So you see,either way has it's pitfalls and advantages.I would say this though- chemo was by far the worst treatment.If I could have avoided that then I may have had a mastectomy 7yrs ago.But you just can't predict ahead.Good luck with your decision.

                        Tonya xx