Hi, I don't know if it helps but I have BC and have been told my lymph nodes are clear but the nurse said she would bet her bottom dollar I would have chemo too due to me being young and them throwing everything at me to wipe it out. I'm 44 and have grade 3 BC. For me this was certainly not what I wanted to hear.

 Good luck 

Kim x

Shazzer,

If you feel unsure about whether this is right for you, perhaps you could talk to your oncologist or your lead nurse to discuss your options? Or maybe call the nurses at CRUK on the freephone helpline 0808 800 4040?

I'd personally go with the chemo, I'm a belt and braces sort of person, but it is always your call about whether or not to have any particular treatment. There are pros and cons to all the options and you should really consider these.to enable you to give your informed consent to any treatment.  

Good luck
Dave   

Hi I was diagnosed in February, had a lumpectomy and lymph node biopsy . Nodes were clear but no clear margins . Had another opp to remove mire tissue which also had no clear margins. Had mastectomy 2 weeks ago with immediate reconstruction with fantastic cosmetic results. Had a permanent implant put in the same time as mastectomy. Went back to hospital today expecting the news that no chemo was needed ( in denial) to be told my cancer was grade 3 measuring 10cm and needed chemo which will start in 2 weeks after I have seen the oncologist. I am now scared and extremely upset at the thought of losing my hair and even being ill as I feel fit as a fiddle! 

I was grade 2 BC with affected lymp nodes.  I felt very scared of chemo, you read all the stories, and I had the image of someone with their head in a bucket and really ill.  I did not feel great during chemo, but after the first week, I was almost back to normal, until the next round>  Chemo is normally given in 6 sessions with three weeks in between, to help your body recover.  They have lots of medication for sickness which helps grately.  I have known women who have worked through chemo - I could not as I work with children, and there was too much risk of infection.  My advice would be to take small steps, and do not google.  Stories can be very scary.  I can honestly say that chemo was not that bad for me.  The time went very quick.  I went for walks and went out with my husband during chemo.  

The hair loss is not nice, but there are some great wigs out there.  It really is a short time, most peopls hair grows on fairly quickly.  I am 2 1/2 past treatment and feel good and back to work.

Take care, and if I can answer any questions or you just want to talk please post.

xxx

I know it's hard when all u want to do is run out and be thankful they are clear and they then see but you still need chemo! Took me a few days to see it was great news and chemo has to be done to ensure 100% they got it all, nearly there just frightened off the actual process. Good luck with your next apt xx

Thank you for your comments i too can't work during chemo as am in teaching which is hard as miss my job and the kids. I have to have it I know deep down I just hope I can be strong and get through it and times goes quickly, thanks for your comments they helped a lot x

Yep your right just so bloody scary and just want to go back to work and be me again. Thanks for your comments they helped x

Hi

I'm stage 2 BC Invasive lobular carcinoma, her2 positive, lymph nodes clear. I went for usual mammogram end of August 2021. 1st biopsy and further investigations 13th September 2021, results 22nd September 2021 diagnosis of stage 2 BC no spread to lymph nodes under arm. Referral to my local hospital for treatment by surgery. Saw pre assessment unit 5th October and 8th October surgery  on 11th October for nuclear biopsy, mammogram and wire incision. Stayed in due to epilepsy over night. Recovering well from surgery. Results for 2nd biopsy in lymph nodes clear with clear margins on 2 November. Referral to oncologist on 16th November for treatment. Treatment plan chemotherapy as Her2 positive, targeted therapy for 6 months chemo injection and chemotherapy for another 3 months with radiotherapy and cancer tablet letrozole.

I have to make a decision about chemo to start in 2 weeks. I was surprised to hear needed it as a stage 2 but because of Her2 being positive it changes treatment. I was prepared for radiotherapy but not this news re chemo and the duration of the treatments off work.Also have preexisting illness, asthma and epilepsy. My neurologist has told me today all treatment won't affect the epilepsy or medication on, keppra but still scared. I live alone with no family around and worried more about how manage financially whilst going through treatment. Any help appreciated

Michelle x

Hi, 

I was diagnosed with invasive ducal breast cancer -and I've had a similar journey so far.

my cancer is grade2. Oestrogen positive and Her2negaive.

i started chemo last week. I get four cycles every 3weeks. I've been a Total Wreck over the last few months dreading being told I need chemotherapy.

I Know I'm only a week into it but it's hot been anywhere near as bad as I thought. 
I'm just following the medical advice given to me

about my treatment plan.

Regarding work admins finances- can you contact your line manager : HR department and ask for advice. Some people manage to work from home before treatment starts and in between chemo cycles - doing reduced hours to fit around treatment plan and appoitments.  
Ask about sick pay entitlement.
if you have cancer you are classed as having a disability so your place of work should be supportive.

Do you accrew holiday entitlement when off sick? If you do put holiday in to help wages.

I know McMillan have solicitors and you can get financial advice and apply for benefits to assist with some financial help.

Your GP practice have information.

Slow journey but we are here every step of the way.

Efffie x

Hi Michelle

I am on a very similar journey to yours and wonder how you are getting on with your treatment?  I hope it is going well.

I have had surgery but because HER2 positive plus ER positive I have been referred to oncologist for chemo, hertaceptin and letrozole plus radiotherapy.  
I also have arthritis and have regular check ups as had bladder cancer.  I live alone with no family close by and have a couple of good friends nearby.  

I keep reading about the side effects of hertaceptin and letrozole and they are scary
Anything you are willing to share would be extremely helpful - the good, bad and the ugly

Thanks, Wendy