Hi I recently had left sided mastectomy my Cancer being stage 2 HRT2 negative,I had cancer cells in one node and the further nodes I think 6 was all clear.I am prob doing the optima test and I really dont want to have chemo but if I have to I will.Im quite confused how it all works but the surgeon said that my type of cancer is a grey area as to weather chemo is benificial.
Any advice please
Hi Sue. I joined the Optima Trial after being diagnosed in Sept 2017. I was grade 2 ER/PR positive HER negative and had 4 nodes affected (2 under microscope only). I did a lot of research into the trial. The cancer research website has quite a lot of information too. It’s a blind trial which means only half the participants get tested. So there are three outcomes. You are tested and results show you don’t need chemo. You are not tested and go on to have chemo. You are tested and the results show you still need chemo. So if you go on to have chemo you will not know if you have been tested or not. I hope this makes sense. Results took about 2 weeks and my oncologist said a short delay wouldn’t affect my treatment plan. I was fortunate and tested and didn’t need Chemo. If you would like any more information then let me know. Michele
Hi, hoped I could ask you a question. I know your post was a good while back. I am ER+ HER2- with four positive lymph nodes. I have had mastectomy and lymph node clearance. I’ve been offered to take part in optima trial. I am going in circles. I don’t want chemo but am afraid incase I need it! I feel like my oncologist is wanting me to pick the trial but of course can’t be seen to be influencing my decision. I told her today I’m just bypassing trial and opting for chemo but she put me into doubt again. I know everyone is different but do you have any regrets re not having chemo? I hope you are well. Sam x
Hi Sam. I am well thank you. My understanding is that when there is node involvement then the usual recommendation is for chemo. However not everyone will benefit from having chemo and this was part of my decision to join the trial. I had consented to chemo and if the test showed I needed it then I would have had it. I don’t have any regrets about joining the trial and I am sure the results will benefit others in the future. Michele x
Thank you for your reply, I am so worried about making the wrong decision. I am glad you are well. Sam xo