Hi all
I had a mastectomy three months ago. My lymph nodes were tested and were clear of cancer cells. Unfortunately HER2 receptor was positive. It was therefore recommended that I have chemotherapy.
I asked my oncologist what the survival rate was to 10 years without chemotherapy and he said 70%. With chemo for the same duration 73%. Not a great difference and he stated that the chemo was very invasive for the HER2 receptor. It would be given 6 times every three months but further drugs to be taken oral after that.
I’m struggling with this decision. I’m 72 years of age and am feeling really fit and healthy after getting over the mastectomy.
is there anyone else on the forum who is struggling with this decision?
Aziza
Hello Aziza,
This is often a tough decision to make.
I experienced this after I had lung removal surgery when I was offered chemo with a potential 5 percentage points added to the 5 year survival rate which was not much. I decided to go for it, although I was 58 years old at the time. I'm now 70 and am still here.
I would suggest you also join and re-post your question on the breast cancer forum where you will potentially receive more replies from the large number of members on there. I wish you all the best whatever your decision.
The link is:
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
