I had a shocking diagnosis of metastatic spread to my lungs, liver and possibly bones back in October, after turning up every year for my annual check and mammogram to remaining breast for 6 years, being told yes everything’s fine. I happened to go see my GP because of an on-going rhinitis based cough, and she arranged a chest x-ray, given my history, just so as I wouldn’t worry! Thank goodness she was thoughtful and thorough, otherwise when would this monster have shown up? I had no symptoms. I’m only 60 and this has come as a huge shock, and confused retirement plans completely.
I’ve currently just completed treatment no 3 of 6 of Docetaxel, Herceptin, Perjeta, and the H and P will carry on for a year. Progress is being monitored by CA153 tumour marker blood test results and I will have another CT scan after treatment no 6.
I’m asking what happens going forward with testing and monitoring, what sort of scans, how often? So would appreciate forum members sharing their experiences, and feelings. Also what sort of follow up and after care do others get? I’m still hoping to resurrect the retirement plan and downsize/move house, but obviously location is going to be influenced by health care access, and what services are available at a local hospital or how far I would need to travel to get them.