I am 39 and have had Grade 1 Invasive ductal cancer 10mm, ER positive, HER neg and following the removal of two nodes, micro fragments of cancer were found in both. I have also had a mastectomy and reconstruction. I suppose I should be delighted to be informed that not only were the rest of the nodes not removed, but it has been decided that I am not going to receive chemotherapy according to current thinking. But herein lies my concern. I worry that the cancer may be in the rest of the nodes and that tamoxifen without chemo may not be sufficient to halt the spread of cancer or indeed deal with any further cells that may be in the other nodes. Of course, I must place all my faith the decision of the oncologist but I was wondering whether anyone, whether specialist in the field or not, shares my concerns and whether I should pursue this issue?
Thanks
CC
Hi Fairydust1
It sounds like you’re having a worrying time at the moment. I’m sure some of the other users will be a long soon to offer your their experiences and advice. In the meantime you might find it helpful to talk things through with a member of staff on the helpline. Here you can share your thoughts with someone who will offer you a listening ear as well as emotional support and pratical information. The number to call is 0808 800 6000 and lines are open Monday to Friday 9 to 5pm and Saturday 10 to 2pm.
Best wishes Sam, BCC Facilitator.
My oncologist used the Adjuvant computer programme to give me a chart which weighed up benefits versus risk of whether to do chemo or not. For radiotherapy he was clear he didn’t recommend it in my case but where there could be some benefit in choosing a treatment he used that tool to help me decide. I would ask him to explain why he feels you don’t need chemo. I think you should be involved in the decision if you are borderline so you understand any decision