PJ
I had the same experience in 2001 when I did the lumpectomy & radiation. I was advised to take 3 rounds of chemo. I thought why go through that when my margins are clear & no lymph node involvement. In 2003 my cancer came back in the same breast & I had a double mastectomy & reconstructive surgery & of course chemo. When I look back I only have one regret & that is I wished I had taken chemo in 2001. He only recommended 3 rounds in 2001 & I had 6 rounds in 2003. My hair did not fall out nor did I start feeling bad until my 4th chemo. From my personal experience I would always if asked to do the chemo. Give it all they have to throw at it the first time & maybe you won't have to do it again. As I stated on my profile I take aromisin. I am nearly 5 years cancer free. I do have achy joints & bone pain but there are pain meds for that. I have 1 more year on the aromasin & then I can get off. It is possible the bone & joint pain will go away after being on the drug. I was in my Rhuematoligist's office & read an article about aromasin unleasing rheumatoid arthritis or bone pain but I am nearly 5 years out & cancer free.
I couldn't tolerate the other drugs they gave me so that is how I ended up with aromasin.
No doctor should every tell her he needs to know in 24 hours but the sooner the better.
Ladies life is hard & cancer makes it harder but if you do all you can to kick cancers *** then later you may never have to deal with it again. I wish your friend all the best in the world & without a doubt if I had it to do all over again I would take the chemo. Osteoperosis is a side effect but as we age & don't ake hormones the body naturally will loose bone mass. They also have meds for the osteporisi.
FYI
Vickie
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Amen!
You described something very similar to what I went through...and what we all go through, usually numerous times, during the course of this challenge that is breast cancer. I agree wholeheartedly with all of your observations and suggestions! Thanks, PJ!
Jolene