Breast Cancer Now Forum

Hi Carmen and Sorbet. Thank you so much for your comments and sharing your experiences and decisions. It is always good to hear from other women in similar situations and know that I am not alone. I had my oncology appointment yesterday and i was very nervous to the build up, feeling sick and not being able to eat. I was very lucky as my oncologist went through the adjuvant online, and the extra benefit of having chemo, which was only 2% for me. Already at 92% 10 year positive prognosis. He did not push me towards chemo, so for me it was an easy decision to make. I really felt it wasn't worth the possible extra benefit of 2% for all the awful side effects. He didn't even think it was worth having the Oncotype DX test. As you say everyone is different, but I feel very happy with the decision I have made and feel as if a huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders. I will go for 19 sessions of radiotherapy plus obviously the tablets for 5 years. I have 3 children (1 of which is still dependent on me) who are luckily old enough to chat things through with me, and they all support my decision, and of course my husband. It will be beneficial to all when the Oncotype DX is available from 1st April and will help all women in a similar position make a more confident decision, which can only be a good thing. I wish you all well with your treatment and recovery. This forum is a life line. xx ... View more

I am delighted that the Oncotype DX type is going to be available on the NHS. I have my Oncologist Appointment this Tuesday 10Feb. I don't think it is going to be available free until 1st April so I am gutted about that. The current cost is £2,500, which is such a lot of money. I had a lumpectomy on 6 January. IDC Grade 3, lymph node negative, Er+. So i am borderline chemo. Does anyone know what the risks would be in delaying the start of treatment, whether that is chemo or radiotherapy, for 3 months after surgery? I have been told it is a minimum of 2 months anyway, so does another month make a difference? I have been reading alot of posts regarding chemo, and it just sounds so debilitating, it is going to be a tough decision. ... View more