Newbie playing the waiting game

Hi,  Yes the waiting is the worst thing. The oncotype test goes to America so itdoes take about 4 weeks. Did they tell you what it tells them?  I understand it is to show if you would benefit from chemotherapy. If the score is less than 25 you probably won't, I was 21 so have just had 3 weeks of radiotherapy.  Once you know what is happening you will feel better, the not knowing is the worst. I try to think that they are being very thorough and finding the best treatment for you which will be best in the end.   I am waiting for a review in 10 days and hoping I won't need any more treatment apart from some long term drugs.  Thinking if you.x

Hi Pixie14,

I had a lumpectomy four months ago and lymph nodes removed, I  finished my radiotherapy a few weeks ago and have recently been told I am clear. I live on my own and waited three and a half weeks for my results, it felt like an eternity so I know what you mean.

You have made the first big step by finding the Macmillan site, also do visit your nearest Macmillan centre, a list is on here, or ring them on 0808 808 0000, they are superbly helpful and give you lots of great info, do walks, talks, help with benefits, bills, open 10-4 Mon-Fri for coffee and chat and lots more. Please also get a good support structure in place, family, friends, good work colleagues, I’ve lived on my own for nigh on forty years, but realised you can’t do this on your own. I also go for a short walk every day (British weather permitting) and do a daily diary, this is mega helpful, as it gets everything off your chest and out of your system. It is important during the day to keep yourself occupied, hobbies, interests etc., it stops you from dwelling on what is going on. You may also find it beneficial to listen to a meditation podcast, they really help you to relax especially when you are trying to get to sleep. I use one called ‘Go Gently’ by Christine Elizabeth Smith, it does a lot for me. Whatever you do, do not visit Dr Google as there is so much conflicting information, your head will spin and it will stress you out, listen to your medical team and you get great support on.

I know it’s hard sometimes, but try and keep as positive as you possibly can, have positive people around you and dump the negativity, above all, be kind to yourself - I promise you, you will get through this. You are never alone and can always come and chat to us shower in here.

Keeping fingers and everything crossed for you.

Take care and big hugs.xxx

Yes they told me the test will determine the chances of cancer returning anywhere in the body and whether I would benefit from chemo. I like the fact that they are being thorough and not just opting to give me chemo when it might not be needed, but it's just another delay in treatment starting and another wait, but I know it's best to get the correct treatment for me so I'm trying to stay positive.

I really hope your review in 10 days is positive, please let me know how you go x

So pleased to hear that you are all clear, it's so good to hear positive results from others.

I am taking each stage one day at a time, Dr Google is not my friend at all, I will start reading up about chemo/radiotherapy once I know what my treatment plan is as I don't want to stress myself out unnecessarily until I need to. I have an amazing support team around me with family and friends but sometimes you just need to talk to someone who's been there or is going through this journey too.

Thank you for the advise and recommendations, I will take a lot of that on board.

Take care xx