Forum Discussion

Annie13's avatar
Annie13
Member
13 years ago

BRCA-2

Morning ladies

It's been a while since my last post with not much new to report until now. Yesterday the results from my genetic testing came in and it turns out I have BRCA-2.

What does this mean for me? Well, I had already opted to have my other breast off, so turns out that was the right decision. Also means when I'm 40 odd (I'm 34 now - 35 on Saturday!) I'll need to have my ovaries removed. Also really helps explain why I got this bloomin disease!!!

My mum died young from breast cancer so it is linked to her side of the family. I'm now in the awkward position of having to go to my immediate family and communicate the news, and advise that they should go forward for genetic testing. I feel a bit sick about the whole thing. It's bad enough this thing has had a crack at Mum and I.....I hate to think it could affect anyone else in our family.

So now I just have to put a plan of action in place to communicate this news.

The other consideration is children. Having gone through an unsuccessful round of IVF (to freeze embryo's) immediately following my treatment, if we were to try this process again it would likely have to be in 2-3 years time, after at least 2 years of Zolidex and Tamoxifen, and before having ovaries removed! Wow, just so much to consider. And I'm not even sure I want to have children....but at my age I guess the time for making this decision has to be sooner rather than later.

Anyway, despite the above I am actually doing really well. I am eating well, exercising every day, have managed to lose some weight, am having minimal to no side effects from Tamoxifen, and generally just feeling really fit and healthy. :)

tamoxifen

3 Replies

  • LindaD's avatar
    LindaD
    Member
    13 years ago
    Hi Tania, I was just reading you post about being scarred of tamoxifen, I've been on it now for 18 months and I am 39 I haven't noticed anything too bad as far as side effects go, may be a little weight gain which I'm dark about but I think if you watch what you put in your mouth I think that's controllable. I'm on 20mg good luck and yes if it brings your %rate for survival up I'm all for it. Take care Linda
  • Annie13's avatar
    Annie13
    Member
    13 years ago

    Hmm....that''s a good question. I guess it is supposed to prevent it returning in any other area's of your body?

  • Annie13's avatar
    Annie13
    Member
    13 years ago

    Hi Tania

    I have to say, like you, I was petrified reading all of the side effects for Tamoxifen! I even said to my onc that I didn't want to take it! Well, he quick smart talked me out of that saying it was the best thing to prevent the cancer from coming back so it was pretty much a given!

    There are so many ladies that do have issues with Tamoxifen. BUT, I went into it thinking that no matter what I am in control of my body, and I will not let some little white tablet take a hold of me. I am focussing on exercising every day and eating really well and I genuinely believe that both of these things combat and nulify any side effects. To date I have had none and I have been on it for 6 weeks now. It's not to say I won't get any, but my body is prepared if I do!

    In a few weeks I'll also start on Zolidex for 18 months or so. Will be interesting to see if the two of them combined will make any difference. Either way, I'm giving myself the best chance to combat any.

    Anyway, hope that helps. :)