Finding Hope in the Face of Cancer

I was told by the ER Dr that when I was first diagnosed with mets to the pleura of my lung, I needed to get my affairs in order. I didn't have long to live. The oncologists told me differently that with all the new meds that this was not true. I still don't know how extensive my lung mets are because a large pleural effusion got in the way. I responded really fast to Ibrance and Letrozole. Breathing is about 95% what it used to be. I go for my first scan since my diagnosis at the end of the month. I January, when the mets were discovered, tests showed it was the only metastatic spot.

Chanelle S. Have you considered a second opinion at a different hospital. When I was first diagnosed in 2015, I drove about 2 hours to a large cancer hospital for a second opinion. I probably would have done it again, but I was assigned a different oncologist this time who is extremely knowledgeable and explains everything so thoroughly, listens and hears what I say. Other physicians and staff tell me I am so lucky to have him. He is a highly respected Dr in the clinic.

Yes, I'm going to get a second opinion, and after reading the other's post about their experience with breast cancer, I feel a little better

Thank you Chanelle for posting! We recently ran an offer where we helped patients pursue a second opinion. We’re launching a pathology-second opinion offer soon, too. We’ll post back here when the offer is ready and patients can take advantage of it. More to come!

Hi Chanelle! A little over two years ago I was diagnosed with IDC also, with lung mets and axial lymph nodes. I started on Ibrance, fulvestrant, and zoladex, and have responded really well. The breast lump and lung mets shrunk considerably. Last year they found a brain lesion that was treated with CyberKnife, and it’s shrinking as well. All this to say, in the beginning it all seemed bleak and scary, but you may find treatment options that work and even give you a sense of normalcy. I realize the meds I’m on won’t work forever, but there are other things to try beyond that, and more being developed every day. Hang in there! It’s not easy, but you’re not alone! ❤️

Thank you, Stacy M. I'm in a better head space now, I have been looking for into getting better by eating right and exercising and just working on my mental

That’s so great to hear! I try to walk for an hour every day, and it’s made a huge difference in my state of mind. Getting outside really helps me.

What a powerful reminder that hope can be found in community connection, even during the most challenging times. This space is filled with people who truly understand the journey and can offer the encouragement that sometimes feels missing elsewhere. The shared experiences and support here create a unique source of strength that many find invaluable when navigating treatment decisions and daily challenges.