Me so far......

Hi Viv, I had .8 mm in one node which is apparently very small, I was given the option of chemo or no chemo.  The oncologists gave me the stats of chances of a recurrance and it was 10% less if I had the chemo so that was enough for me to go for it.  It is all based on their stats whether they recommend it or not. It was only because of that tiny bit that put me in the category of having the option of chemo.  If you are worried talk to your Breast Care Nurse about a second opinion, because you need to be really comfortable about it.  Don't feel silly or like you are undermining them because at the end of the day it's your body and you need to be comfortable with what is going on.  I am too in the public system but have found them good.  My surgeon also recommended a website www.cancer.org which is good for researching, and also https://www.cancer.nexcura.com/Secure/InterfaceSecure.asp?CB=266, which is a cancer treatment profiler on the same site.  I got my test report and searched some of the terms on this site to get a good understanding, I think it's good to know for yourself.  It sounds like you have a positive case though, no bad cells in your lymph nodes is a fantastic outcome, it is very very unlikely that there will be any in the others from what I understand.  I know it might sound ridiculous to you but you should be very happy, you are going to be a cancer SURVIVOR.  Think of it as a turning point in your life and start focusing on other things, good things.  I'm actually thinking of taking up ballroom dancing because I love Dancing with the Stars - now I know it's a bit out there (I've never danced in my life) but I thought why not - I am going to do some crazy and fun things and start loving my life because I appreciate it so much more now, I appreciate everything more now and can actually say I am happier and stronger from the experience.  Any time you need some words of encouragement I am happy to help.  Rach