I had a lump removed in July, was told area around the 1cm which remained after chemo, after extraction proved to be healthy. I had
11 lymph nodes removed, also diagnosed healthy. Was told I needed 15 radiotherapy sessions as a precautionary measure and that I would then have a 70% chance of cancer not returning. I have had 11 sessions and today I was told I needed 5 boosters after the 15. First time this had been mentioned. I complained, as was told these were on the scar only. As the radiotherapy machine was placed for 2 of the boosts exactly where the lump was, could not see the point of the extra 5 boosts. Was told that the boosts were effective for people up to 50 - I am 66 so do I need these. Someone please help if possible I have to see the Doctor tomorrow to discuss this
i know that generally speak some of the mature ladies do not get boosters… my mum didnt get them at 57 but i did at 37 and again at 41
its mean to be targeted where the tumour was but nearer to the skin as this is most likely where a recurrence would start i the same place as your original cancer… its just a precautionary measure but you could ask what actual difference it would make to risk of recurrence and overall survival… but im guessing they wouldnt offer it unless they felt it was worthwhile.
if it was a radiographer that suggested it then perhaps shes just speculating that you may need them.
they tend to be the rads that make your skin go much redder as its more superficial i stil have a dark square where i had my booster in february.
Hi Syvia I am 59 soon to be 60 I had 15 rads and then 3 booosts to the scar area. Unlike your Dx I had WLE and ANC ( 4/11) and re excision for better margins.As my tunour was close to skin I had the boosts to scar area. It felt no different from the earlier rads.Any little helps as they say.Am so pleased I had them. Best wishes Jackie
I think my incliniation would be take anything thats offered that mayhelp this horrible disease stop in its tracks - for 3 quick blasts, and the set up for boosters isn’t as complicated as the main rads, I’d do it regardless - but thats just me.
Hi Sylvia I had 33 rads. 25 normal and 8 boosters. I found the boosters took less time than the normal ones.My breast was a little sore towards the end and for a little while after but nothing too bad.It’s an extra precaution.I agree with Nina throw everything at it to try and keep it away.
I also had 25 plus 8 boosters. Hadn’t heard about the age difference - I’m 51 so maybe I was marginal. I would also take all I am offered, despite being very tired by that stage.