I am wondering if anyone had the oncotype DX results, mine have come back at 24 (intermediate risk of recurrence (18-31) , and the MDT team could not make a decision to whether I should have chemo, my consultant went through all % and if I have chemo I get a 4% extra chance of cancer not recurring, so from 88% to 92%, but he was unable to advise me, and said it was my decision, I made the mammoth decision, I have said yes, but I am in such a quandry now, as to whether I need to put myself through chemo for 4% gain, I am have had mini-meltdown yesterday and sleepless nights since saying yes (3 days ago), it is such a heard decision to make, as I feel good at the moment 7 weeks post op, healing well, clear lymph nodes, Any advice ? D
Hi Debscoop,I did not have the Oncotype DX test as I had one positive sentinel node involved but after an axillary lymph node clearance all my other nodes were clear.The consultant recommended chemo and I am halfway through.In response to your post,at least if you go through chemo you know that you’ve thrown everything at it to prevent a recurrence ! Chemo is tough but doable! Good luck and best wishes with your journeyxx
Hi Debs,
My oncotype came back at 28 so the decision was a little easier but still in the intermediate range. All I can say is that for me, the decision to go ahead with chemo was the right one. I need to know I’ve done all I can. I know that enduring chemo does not guarantee I won’t have a recurrence but I do know that if it does come back, and I don’t do it I’ll always wonder what if. I am still content with that decision half way through and with the prospect of 3 more FECs ahead of me!
Good luck,
B x
My oncotype score is also 24, though my consultant has not given me % of it recurring if I have chemo. I have asked for the full test results and am waiting to hear back from them. They are giving me a week to think about it as I have an infection in my reconstructed breast at the minute anyway. My tumour site was 6cm, ER+ PR+ Her- no LN involvement.
Having gone through such major surgery and still recovering I am not inclined to add the burdon of chemo onto my system yet, only 3 weeks post surgery. I can totally understand your mini meltdown, these decisions are hard. I so wish I was the type of person who could just accept what the experts say. I have always stayed away from doctors, using alternative options where ever possible. But I do not think acupuncture alone is the answer this time.
If I find out that the % chances of the cancer recurring are only improved by 4% bu chemo, I think I will say No. When making impossible decisions I think it is best to use your head and your heart. Your head makes the decision but then your heart tells you if it is the right one. You have to trust yourself and be comfortable with what ever you choose. These are terrifying tough time, take some time to see how you feel.
Hi. I’m waiting for my Oncotype results as I type. My oncologist seems to think chemo won’t be indicated and has provisionally booked a ct scan to start rads planning. I’m struggling to stop the what if it’s in the grey area thoughts. I think we will be asked to decide on the day - 24 is the number I have swirling in my head to be my cut off point. I’m wondering if you had a number in your heads before your results? I hope you’re doing okay Debs. I’m assuming you’ve started chemo now? Xx
Hi Janey
When do you get your results ? I feel for you having to make the decision. I’m starting chemo on Thurs. I did get a second opinion in the end and he more or less agreed with my original consultant to go ahead so off I go!
Sarah xx
Hi Sarah. I’m glad you were able to get 2nd opinion and I hope tomorrow goes well. My results should be in next Weds they hope but it seems a way off still. I couldn’t get a clear steer from my oncologist, other than she thinks grey area! Big hugs for tomorrow. Are you using a cold cap? Xx
Hi Janey
Hopefully it’ll come round quick. Yes I’m going to give the cold cap a go. I figure if it helps then it’s worth it.
Let me know how you get on next Wed.
Sarah x
Hi Sarah how was today? Xx
Hi Janey
The cold cap was fine. The first 15 mins were very unpleasant as everyone predicted. I came home and felt OK. But about 4pm I started to feel really quick sick. I phoned the nurse and she told me to take the back up anti sickness tablet which I did. I’ve been unable to get up from the sofa really. Spent the last 10 mins being sick and actually feel a bit better now.
I’ll see how I go through the night and if I need to, I’ll phone back tomorrow and see if they can prescribe an alternate.
Thank you for asking x
Hi Sarah how are you feeling now? Sorry for delayed response. BT has had is offline for a couple of days, which has meant cold turkey from the forum sadly. I hope the sickness has improved and I’m glad you coped with the cold cap. Only 3 days and I will hopefully know what’s next for me - although I’ve convinced myself the results won’t be back! I hope you’re enjoying a peaceful weekend and the sun is shining where you are xx
Hi Janey
Thanks for thinking of me. I feel pretty rubbish. Mostly the nausea really. It could be a lot worse I guess! I am slightly nervous that most people seem to feel worse from day 3 onward as I am hoping tomorrow may bring some relief. The sun is shining though so not all bad and I’ve been out for 20 min walk so taking (very) small steps!
Whatever your results are everyone here will get you through the chemo if you have to have it. I’m going to book a look good feel better class soon I think.
Sending hugs
Sarah x
Good luck Lisa with your next step. The waiting is horrible and thank goodness for this place. Sarah I hear the look good feel better course is good, so let us know. I hope you don’t have post day 3 problems. Planting bulbs in the sun today has been very therapeutic. Hugs to you and now to indulge in Poldark xx
Hi Lisa
Oh I am sorry but at least you’re doing everything you possibly can to kick the blighters bum.
I felt marginally better yesterday and went for a walk, so hoping today follows suit. Although my steroids finish today so may be a bumpy ride again the next few days.
I understand completely how you feel. Although the chemo is there to do its job, the thought of a poison in my body is not nice and I’m sure thinking about it makes me feel worse.
But in the grand scheme of things it’s hopefully a short time out of a long life to have to get through.
Let us know how you get on wed if you feel up to it.
Big hugs
Sarah x
Hi Sarah. How are you feeling - any brighter? No results for me tomorrow, my appointment postponed for another week. Was gutted to get the call cancelling but feeling a bit calmer now. Xx
Hi Janey
Glad to hear you feel calmer. I had a bad day yesterday. Felt sick and a bit breathless all day. It was the first day off the Steroids though so wasn’t expecting to feel great. It was a long day as my husband works long hours and was away yesterday all day so didn’t really speak to anyone for 14 hours!
Another day ticked off though. Hoping to get out today for a walk although District Nurse coming at some point so have to wait for her (or him)! X
Hi everyone, can I ask please as I am unsure and can’t see clarification anywhere - can you only get the Oncotype test if you are HER2 negative? I am HER2 positive and want to ask for it but I’ve read two sites online that suggest it’s only for those who were negative.
Hi Steph
I’m pretty sure it’s only for HER negative. Xx
Hi Sarah. I hope today was a better day for you and the district nurse was helpful and you managed to get out. We made the most of the cancelled appointment for lunch and gardening, I’m not sure which helped most but a good day. Steph I’m HER negative and was eligible for test. It maybe worth checking with your oncologist but I think only if negative. Xx
Hi Janey
Yes a better day, yay! The District Nurse was lovely. Recognised her from school. Small world.
Lunch and gardening sounds nice. It’s certainly been the weather for it.
I’ve booked on to a Look Good Feel Better course in Oct so that’s something to look forward too.
Keep in touch
Sarah xx