Should I choose chemotherapy for my early-stage breast cancer?

Hi Nancy. Very similar situation, but mine metastasized to 1 lymph node. Oncogene score 19, which placed me just barely into the "iffy" category for chemo under the new standards adopted in San Antonio. They didn't know as of last Dec if the benefit outweighed the risk. Enter into the equation that I have severe Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and had to retire early from my career in health care because I can't tolerate the chemicals used in any healthcare setting for sanitising. After the Medical Oncologist and Radiation Oncologist and his whole team witnessed what happened to me with the constant exposures in their relatively safe radiation center, none of them were supportive of chemo. My friends were just as non-supportive. And yet, there sat that unknown area with a 19 score. I wrestled with it, prayed a lot and listened for guidance. I decided to forgo chemo and take the aromatase inhibitor. For various reasons, Dr settled on Arimidex (anastasole) for 5 years once I made the decision. I am doing very well on it, much to the relief of all involved. It is not fun trying to see our futures and make the right decision.

Linda thanks so much for sharing this experience Prayers and hopes for your continued health. I am still wrestling but will decide next Tuesday when I meet with team. I have always thought if treatment affected me as you describe I would forego— my spouse is very against this so will see. Take care

I had IDC. Caught early with no lymph node involvement. Lumpectomy. However my pathology score was 30. Completed 16 rounds chemo (ACT). Also completed 20 rounds of radiation. Just started taking Anastrazole for at least 5 years. I am 62. I handled chemotherapy better than I expected and radiation wasn’t bad either. I was diagnosed last year about this time. It’s been a difficult year but I am thankful.

Oh Bonnie so happy to hear of your positive response. And appreciate knowing how you balanced your decision. I will circle back here once I get my Oncotype next week. Grateful to be able to process with others. With every good wish. Nancy

Bonnie one question. What is 16 rounds of Chemo? Is it multiple sessions over 16 weeks.

Many thanks. !

This is such a meaningful decision that many in this community have navigated, and it's completely understandable to seek input from others who've walked a similar path. Treatment decisions like this involve weighing many personal factors alongside medical recommendations, and connecting with others who've faced comparable choices can provide valuable perspective and emotional support as you work through this with your healthcare team.