Scared of recurrence of breast cancer

Hi everyone 

I'm on my 16th radiotherapy out of  23 I've got /had invasive   stage 1 grade 3 her 2 postive breast cancer .I had a really bad time  with chemotherapy 5 blood transfusions a platelet transfusion 22 days in hospital then had a lumpectomy with no lymnodes involvement and clear margins. Some days im ok but lately ive had  this real sick to my stomach anxiety feeling that my cancer will come back my breast nurse isn't particularly very good ive asked her what my recurrence rate is,she just said small percentage no figure she was supposed to send me some information out but ive not received anything does anyone no the recurrence rate of my particular cancer. Is it normal to have this much anxiety coming to the end of treatment 

  • Hello LW1073

    I'm sorry to hear that you've had such a bad time with your chemo and that as time as gone on you're now struggling with other aspects of your diagnosis.

    What you've described is very normal for anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer and I'm sure that many of our members here will understand how difficult it can be to come to terms with all that has happened and what this may mean for the future. 

    I'm sorry to hear that your breast care nurse hasn't been particularly supportive. It's a shame that the team hasn't been able to give you some answers and information to help support you and offer some reassurance. Don't be afraid to get back in touch with her and let her know you've not received the information that she said she would send.

    It may also be worth asking if there is a psychology service for cancer patients in your hospital trust that you're able to access. Having someone to talk to and work through the thoughts and feelings that you're dealing with really can help. If there's not a psychology service available then you could call your local Maggie's centre who has a number of talking therapy services available. Or of course, you're most welcome to give our team of nurses a call. I'm sure they will be happy to chat with you and offer any advice and support that they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Keep in touch LW1073. It helps to talk with others who understand and I know that there are many ladies here who do. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Hi,

    I just read your post and almost thought I was reading my own, I am 38 and was diagnosed a couple of months ago, I was absolutely shocked to be told I had breast cancer my GP didn't seem too think it was anything to worry about. 
     

    I have a Lumpectomy and I am waiting to see my Oncologist on the 8th.  I had Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Stage 1 Grade 3 Er+ Her2-, no lymph Node involvement and clear Magin. 
     

    I am waiting for my Oncotype Dx score and this is actually scaring me to death.  I am also so anxious about it returning I actually feel that it's a worse feeling for me than the original diagnosis.  I also spoke to my Nurse and didn't give me much Re-assurence I have decided once I have spoken too the Oncologist to see what Treatment path I have I am going too get some counciling to try and help me come to terms with things.

    I am sorry too read that you have had such a terrible time. I hope that from now on you will feel better. 
    your not alone

    love Sarah