Hi Anu: The majority of women who go through breast cancer don't get it again. But it is possible to have a recurrence (getting it again in the same breast, if she didn't have a mastectomy), or getting it again somewhere else; most common sites woould be liver, bones, brain, and lungs. There's nothing doctors currently know that can guarantee breast cancer won't come back; but certain things help, like living a healthy lifestyle (exercise, eating a lower-fat diet, not being overweight, not drinking or smoking). Another important thing would be for her to take the medicaitons she's prescribed (if she's on anything long-term), and be sure to go to her scheduled followup appoiintments. I guarantee, your mom will be watched very carefully over the comingmonths and years, till the doctors feel that cancer is less likely to return (which is after 5 years, usually). Good luck to you both. As you told Elaine - live your life. And help her live hers, without trying to predict the future. - PJH