Reservations about chemotherapy

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Hi, I went for a routine mammogram in November,  called back for repeat mammogram and ultrasound in December, results received January - 10 mm lump and infected lymph node found.  February had surgery to remove lump and total lymph node clearance. Had CT scan.

Earlier this month i had a meeting with the Oncologist who went head long into my treatment plan, 16 weeks intravenous chemo, followed by radiotherapy and then further long term tablet chemo. I was frankly reeling when I left -  I did manage to ask if this was treatment or was it preventative and she assured me it was preventative.

 Since then I have received the results of the Ct scan and thankfully it was all clear confirming the cancer hasn't spread to any other organs. I have now been booked in for a bone scan on Monday. 

 I have never received copies of the pathologist reports on either biopsy i.e. before and after lump removal.  I requested this information from the hospital but it doesn't seem to be forthcoming so I don't know if they  know something I don't or is this routine treatment. Was wondering if anybody else has undergone these tests (ct and bone scan) and if you have seen the results of your biopsies.

Also given that I have had the all clear from all other tests and am currently very healthy (so everyone tells me!) I was wondering if anyone has decided against having the intravenous chemo?  I am having doubts as to long-term side effects etc and also Ive only been retired a few months after working all my life, raising my family, divorce etc and I just wanted selfishly to enjoy this next year. 

I really would appreciate hearing what others think and your experiences. 

  • you should be able to ask breast cancer nurse for all documents, the results of the scanand biopsies i would also ask about going through the results w oncologist and whether there is an ability to get and oncotyoe test

    BC in 2023, ER + PR- HER2-

    AC and taxol, grade 2a , micro in 1 lymph, 2 surgeries

    gah 

  • they ahould tell youthe grade, the stage and if it is er pr her2 negative or positive or what exactly

    BC in 2023, ER + PR- HER2-

    AC and taxol, grade 2a , micro in 1 lymph, 2 surgeries

    gah 

  • Thank you, I have asked but no response as yet. Also looked at my nhs records on line and nothing uploaded there either.

  • Hi  

    Sorry you are having these issues re lack of information, on top of the shock of a cancer diagnosis. Would echo all of above re information you should already have. The medics must know all of that (grade, stage, type) in order to plan the treatment that’s been proposed. I’m my case, letters were sent to my GP practice at each stage and I received copies of these. That was over 7 years ago, nowadays the letters are also put on the nhs  app so I can access them there too. There’s no excuse for the lack of information provided to you. 
    I wonder whether it’s worth phoning the lovely people on the helpline here at MacMillan as they could advise you re how to proceed. Your decision about whether to go ahead with the treatments proposed needs to be based on full information otherwise it’s not an informed choice! 
    Sending love and a big virtual hug, HFxx

    HappyFeet1 xx
    Don’t be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts. – Hopi
  • Thank you for your reply. I now have  all the full results - I had to chase the BCNs for it. Apparently the letter I should have received from the consultant was not sent out. 

    Based on the info which I now have to hand, I have been able to make an informed decision. I have a meeting with the Oncologist on Monday and will tell her I wish to proceed with the full treatment she recommended- chemo, radiotherapy etc.

    Wish me luck and thanks again for your response x

  • Hi  

    I’m so glad you now have all that information, and can decide how you want to proceed. Good luck with your appointment and with all your treatments. It’s the start of getting rid of the cancer and getting on with your life! Love and hugs, HFxx

    HappyFeet1 xx
    Don’t be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts. – Hopi
  • much luck and hugs, u know where to find people when you need to vent Two hearts

    BC in 2023, ER + PR- HER2-

    AC and taxol, grade 2a , micro in 1 lymph, 2 surgeries

    gah