Newly diagnosed - help

FormerMember
FormerMember
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Hi I was told I had a 18mm cancer in my left breast on 4th Nov.  I had it removed on 14th Nov along with primary lymph node.  Last week I was told I will need chemo as the cancer was estrogen and progesterone positive (scoring 8!) and the were some cells in the first lymph node, but not the next one.

 I saw the Oncologist yesterday and she offered chemo or take part in an Optima study which gives a 25% chance of hormone therapy only, avoiding chemo.  I’m meeting with her again tomorrow and think I’m swaying towards the study.  Has anybody taken part in the study?

on a purely vanity level I’m really worried about hair loss.  I will try the cold cap but understand I should get a wig before hair loss.  Who do you go to about getting a wig? 

Thank you for your help

Jackie x

  • Hi ,

    Sorry that you find yourself here.

    I can’t comment on the Optima trial but I have seen it mentioned on here a lot so I’m sure someone will be along soon to answer your questions.

    My tumour was also hormone positive but I did not have any lymph node involvement. However my cancer was tested (onco dx type test) and as it came back at 27 (0-100. Scores of 26 or below No Chemo) I was advised to and therefore went ahead with chemo. 

    I completely understand about the hair thing, mine is now growing fast (but not fast enough) so it does continue to affect you (or it has me) way past treatment- I finished rads in June. However it is doable and you have to think of the future, I decided that I needed to throw everything at it in order to protect myself against a recurrence but it is an entirely personal decision and certainly not an easy one! 
    I had a fantastic wig and no one knew what I was going through which was important to me. There will most likely be a Macmillan centre at your hospital who will point you in the right direction for your local salon should you need it. 

    Whatever you decide to do, there are lots of lovely ladies on here - between us all most questions can be answered!! 

    Much love 

    Beans