Hi, I have just finished 6 months chemo and radiotherapy after second mastectomy for grade 3 stage 2 invasive ductal cancer. There appeared to be no node involvement from the 4 sampled though there was evidence of vascular invasion.
I hear of people being given the “all clear” after treatment, or being told there is “no evidence of disease” or even that they are “in remission”.
So what am I?? I know I am not “cured” but nobody has said anything, I dont have an appointment for follow up with onc for another 2 months. I dont think they are planning any more tests, so how do I describe myself now and why are some people given the all clear etc?
If anyone can help I would be really curious to know what people have been told and why.
Thanks, Rachel
Hi Rachel,
At the equivalent point after mastectomy, axillary node clearance and chemo, I saw my oncologist who said “I don’t say ‘All Clear’ to people but I think you have done well and have a good chance of continuing to do well”.
I describe myself as NED, No Evidence of Disease and quote the onc - that opens the way for discussion about tabloidish comments about All Clears, if people want.