(Her2+ ER/PR Negative) underwent neoadjuvant TCHP in 2021, followed by double mastectomy (had pCr) (and reconstruction) plus radiation x 25 times, plus adjuvant chemo with Herceptin + Perjeta. 3 years 4 months post last radiation Ive found a small node near L axilla, have had increasing sensation of pressure on axillary nerve with tingling, burning sensation down left arm. Getting ultrasound of L axilla in 2 days. Very depressed that it’s returned and thinking about the road ahead. Don’t think I could face the chemo side effects again. Brain fog, fatigue, diarrhea, not being able to taste food, muscle weakness… I felt like I was 90 years old mentally and physically. I am ok with surgery and radiation. Has anyone else been thinking these thoughts…opting out of infusions for quality of life, however long that is?
I am right here with you! 3 years after lumpectomy, neoadjuvant chemo ( cyclophosphamide, 5FU, methotrexate, Taxol), right mastectomy, radiation and then reconstruction, I am waiting for work up. My ultrasound of LEFT axilla was positive for carcinoma. Have an MRI next Saturday… I also don’t think I could do chemo again. The estrogen blockers didn’t help so they might put me on elacstrant and kinase inhibitor. I am devastated and scared. Dont want to be back here especially as I was feeling and progressing so well. Hope your work up proceeds well. Prayers to you!
Thank you for your kind words. I vassilate between certain it’s returned and the hope (fantasy?) it’s just tissue changes/scarring from radiation. Up until now I had put my worries on hold, moving forward to reclaiming strength and conditioning, planning trips and appreciating that the drugs/treatments were so effective.
I’m so sorry to hear that things have taken a turn for you. Sending healing thoughts and prayers.
Please keep in touch! The waiting is the worst but you’re doing the right thing…
plan distractions.
I hate to be back where I was 3 years ago. I was feeling so well, too! But as I learned 3 years ago, the only way through is through. We did it before, we will do it again. Prayers, love, and light!