Hello,
I am new to this website. I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer almost two months ago (routine mammogram). I had a lumpectomy to remove the tumor (1.4 cm), ER+, no lymph node involvement. Because of these results, my oncologist suggested the Oncotype DX test. My score was 8 so my oncologist was not recommending chemo, which is fine by me. Although it does make me wonder and guess and just hope that the radiation is indeed the only thing that I do need. I don't want to miss any treatment that would benefit me. Although according to my Dr. and from everything I read, the chemo wouldn't be very beneficial to me. Still makes me wonder, but I know I've got to move on. I started taking Tamoxifen a few weeks ago. I haven't really noticed any significant side effects. Maybe some hot flashes - but I can live with that. I start radiation next week, for the next six weeks. I guess my question/concern is what should I expect for side effects from the radiation, and also, any other side effects that I should look out for with the Tamoxifen? I know side effects are different for everyone. Just curious as to what some of your own personal experiences have been with these. I keep hearing that the benefits outweigh the side effects. I have been doing so much reading on breast cancer and it gets pretty scary. I've learned so much these past couple of months - and yet there is still so much more for me to learn. I'm definitely frightened of the "unknown". I know I will always be wondering about "recurrence". That's what haunts me and I'm sure will haunt me forever. I know the next six weeks will be tough - but I will get through it! I will survive!
Peace, and thanks everyone!
Hi Barbara - So glad you found us. This is a gret resource - both for valuable information, and for the support you'll find from women going through (or been through) the same thing.
First, it sounds like your treatment thus far has been A+ perfect, based on your diagnosis. With what you've done so far plus the radiation, the 5-year survival rate data, based on women with similar diagnoses, would be in the 95% range - excellent! According to the informaiton you give here, you don't need chemo; in my opinion, it would be more damaging to you than worthwhile. It's always tempting to think, "I'm going to do EVERYTHING possible to prevent a recurrence," but trust me, chemo can be devastating, and its effects can last for years and years - sometimes permanently. You want to avoid it if you can. Please read our post on whether to have chemo for more on that.
Our radiation FAQS, radiation side effects FAQS, and tamoxifen FAQS should be a big help as you start the final parts of treatment. Personally, I saled through radiaiton with no side effects. Tamoxifen gave me hot flashes, and weight gain; but I dropped the weight after switching to an aromatase inhibitor (Arimidex). I assume you're pre-menopausal, thus the tamoxifen? Otherwise you'd most likely be on an AI.
Believe it or not, someday, the first thing you think about when you wake up won't be cancer. And someday - you won't think of it at all. Seems impossible to believe right now, but it's true. Your cancer was caught early; you're having the exact right treatment; your chances of living a long and healthy life are WAY on the positive side of the data. So, don't look back - look forwards. And don't ever second-guess treatment decisions; it's useless, and all it does is make you feel bad.
Good luck with radiation. I know many women experience fatigue, but as I said, the worst part about it for me was driving to the hospital and trying to find a parking place every day! Other than that - piece of cake. Best of luck to you - PJH
I had no problem with radiation except I drove a 5 hour round trip daily for 15 minutes of rads. for 6 weeks . Oh well I survived!!! good luck with everyhing during your treatment . peace always Barb