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KatyJoy
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Joined 9 years ago
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On letrozole and zoladex since October 2016, now having ovaries out
Hi, I was diagnosed with ER/PR positive IDC in October 2016, had my Modena IUD removed and went straight onto Zoladex, Letrozole, and chemo all at once, as part of a trial. I then had bilateral mastectomy and radiotherapy, then continued on zoladex (monthly) and letrozole. Fast forward to today, and I am about to have my ovaries removed, so can stop the nasty jabs! As my ovaries have been suppressed with zoladex for 4 years, am I going to have any nasty menopausal side effects from ovary removal? I will continue letrozole as planned for 10 years.44Views0likes1CommentRe: Anyone had to stop their chemo ?
Hi @Brooklyn16, reading your story, I noted a lot of similarities to my own, so maybe my experience may help reassure you. I was diagnosed with G2 IDC 9.2 cm stage 3, er+pr+her2-, Invasion into 2 auxiliary nodes, remaining 22 nodes clear, in Oct 2016. I started chemo pre surgery (neoaduvant). I tolerated 3 cycles of FEC (1 cycle every 3 weeks), but developed severe tachycardia (very fast heart rate) chest pain and shortness of breath after my first cycle of Docetaxel. I was admitted to a hospital in coronary care, and remained in for a week. I saw a cardiologist and started a medicine called metoprolol to slow my heart rate. Once this stabilised, the oncologist decided to give me my second of the planned 3 cycles of docetaxel. Unfortunately, my tachycardia got worse despite the metoprolol, and I ended up back in hospital with an abnormal heart rhythm, and very unwell. My oncologist then decided that the risk of giving my last dose of docetaxel outweighed the benefits, so we stopped my chemo, and I missed the last dose. I was vey scared as I was worried it would lessen my chance of survival. I then went on to have surgery (double mastectomy) and radiotherapy. I am taking letrozole for 10 years as a preventative, however, I am vey well, and now back working full time 3 years down the track after finishing my treatment. My heart function returned to normal after 18 months and I stopped the metoprolol. I wish you the very best with your treatment. Kate x34Views2likes0CommentsRe: Health care professionals working with breast cancer patients post diagnosis
Hi @bsally816, I am a nurse and I work in a palliative care unit. I worked here for a bit over a year before I was diagnosed and see it as a privilege to help support people at this stage of life. My workmates were incredibly supportive of me whilst undergoing treatment. My work has been very confronting at times but my patients situation is not my situation, and while I can help them I will because we never know what the future may bring and I hope if I ever need help, someone will be there to care for me. I feel very lucky to have been able to return to work and continue to help people.11Views4likes0CommentsRe: Uplift project - used breast forms, bras, wigs and turbans required for support group in Kenya
Thanks @Giovanna_BCNA, I was just wondering what to do with mine. I just checked the website and there is a drop off point just around the corner from me! I’m so glad someone can use them Kate12Views0likes0CommentsRe: Fever with Palbociclib
@"Patti J", I am also taking palbociclib. This drug suppresses immunity in a similar way to chemotherapy drugs, therefore, we are at higher risk of infection than average. A temperature of 38.1 means you should see a doctor. Please let us know how you go, wishing you the very best KateWhat’s my prognosis doc? Artical by Sunil Jassal
https://www.suniljassal.com.au/post/what-s-my-prognosis I think it’s natural to ‘obsess’ about risk when you’re first diagnosed. I know personally I said to this wonderful surgeon (Sunil Jassal) ‘I have a husband and two children who need me, I need you to save my life!’ And 2.5 years on, I’m well, I don’t know what tomorrow brings, but I promised my family and myself that I would do my best, and that’s what I will continue to do. I will be forever grateful to Suni and the rest of my fabulous team283Views1like2Comments
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Young women & breast cancer
This group is for young women affected by breast cancer. In the context of breast cancer treatment, ‘young’ usually refers to women who are pre-menopausal. Here, you can connect with others who understand the unique challenges that come with a diagnosis at a younger age. We talk about things like fertility, pregnancy, early menopause, ovarian suppression, relationships, and the emotional impact of treatment and recovery. Whether you're newly diagnosed or further along in your journey, this is a safe space to ask questions, share experiences, and support one another. You are not alone during this uncertain and overwhelming time.Let's talk: vaginas, menopause & me
PRIVATE GROUP. This group is a safe, supportive space to talk about sexual health and emotional wellbeing during and after breast cancer. We discuss topics like menopause, vaginal dryness, pain during sex, UTIs, and changes in libido, and share ideas and products that may help. Whether you're navigating intimacy with a partner or reconnecting with yourself, you're not alone here. This is a place for open, respectful conversations and shared understanding.Choosing breast reconstruction
PRIVATE GROUP. Choosing breast reconstruction after single or double mastectomy can feel overwhelming, and deeply personal. This group is here to connect you through others' stories and images. Please respect everyone’s privacy—do not copy or share content outside this space. Information is based on personal experience and is not medical advice; always consult your healthcare team for guidance. ⚠️CONTENT WARNING⚠️ Members may share photos of breast surgeries. These images or discussions may be distressing or triggering for some. If you need support, please contact the BCNA Helpline - we are here for you.