Disappointed with results

Hi ClareS1988 and welcome to the online community

I can understand why you and your mum would be disappointed with her recent results. Although I didn't have this type of cancer I noticed that your post hadn't had any replies yet. By replying to you it will 'bump' it back to the top of the discussions list where hopefully it'll be more easily seen and someone in a similar position will reply.

You might also like to join and post in the main breast cancer group as it's 'busier' than this one and so more opportunity to find someone who's had the same or similar experience to your mum. If this is something that you'd like to do clicking on the link I've created will take you there.

When you have a minute, it would be really useful if you could pop something about your mum's journey so far into your profile as it really helps others when answering or looking for someone with a similar diagnosis. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.

x

Hi Clare, 

I had 12 weeks of paclitaxel and carboplain, followed by 4 EC earlier this year.  My tumour measured 16mm on ultrasound but was actually 19mm when removed and I also had a limited response to the chemo.  I too was very disappointed but was reminded by my oncologist that chemotherapy is a systemic therapy and whilst the tumour didn't; change much, the drugs were also working on mopping up individual cells that MAY have escaped.  The majority of women do not achieve a complete pathological response to chemo and those that have surgery first will never know if their tumour would have responded to the chemo.  I am a member of a Triple Negative support group on Facebook and there are plenty of ladies who had residual tumour (with affected lymph nodes) who are years out of treatment and disease free.  I hope this helps you and your mum a little. Sarah x

Hi Sarah,

Thankyou very much for your reply - it has brought us some comfort and has made us a bit more positive.

I will have a look on Facebook for groups dedicated to triple negative and hopefully can have a read through lots of positive stories.

I hope you are doing well after your treatment x

Hello ClareS1988,

I know exactly what you mean! I was the same. Tumour was originally 5.6mm and only went down to 4.7mm with the inside of the tumour granulating, i.e. the volume altering. Like you and your Mum, I was so disappointed. After 24 weeks of chemo (8cycles) and all the hard work, well you know..... 

However after my surgery I felt relief that it was out of my body. The alien had gone in that I could no longer feel it. I tried some more chemo but only managed one cycle due to mental health and crying(!) and am now waiting for radiotherapy to begin. I feel well and look well so I'm told and I'm trying to be more positive now. I won't lie, I do get tired and shielding in this tier 3 environment is very wearisome, but I'm ok.

We all go through these stages and come out the other side. You and your Mum are following the tried and tested road. Yes this year has been a bummer but I'm looking towards the future. I'm not planning, just taking one day/one week at a time. I have a friend who was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in 2002. She is 18 years free and leading a full life. Hold tight to each other and work through it. Your Mum is very blessed to have you as a daughter to support her. Go for it girls!!!

Alison xxx