Will I end up like my mum?

Boobytrap

My mum was diagnosed with hormone positive, Her2+ breast cancer 6 years ago and had recurrence 2 years ago. She has had it in her bones for that time and now has some lung and liver involvement. I myself was diagnosed with E+PR+HER2+ bilateral breast cancer in September with extensive DCIS. The tumour on the left was about 8mm and the tumour on the right about 1cm (grade 3). However, I also had one lymph node affected out of 13 on the right which was 1cm with extracapsular extension. My onc says the fat around it was removed, but I'm still nervous about it as my mum had 5 out of 25 lymph nodes involved originally, but only specks in them, yet look what stage she is at now. It's really hard as I'm worried about her, but also feel selfish in trying to find ways to differentiate myself from her. The only plus I can see is I'm on herceptin and she didn't get that till her recurrence. I'm finding it hard to pinpoint just one question for you all, but I guess anything hopeful, for me or my mum would be great.

Sassa

Herceptin is a miracle drug for us HER2+ BC patients.  As you are receiving it at your initial diagnosis and treatment, it will hopefully keep you NED. 

I am sorry that your mother was not able to have herceptin at her initial diagnosis.  It would have made a difference in her recurrence risks.

christina0001

My mother has also been through breast cancer and it is a heavy cloud weighing over my head. Don't feel selfish for trying to separate you and your particular details from your mother. We have to mentally process this however we can, to stay sane! I agree that Herceptin does seem like a real miracle drug. You are also younger, likely to be in better health, and have the knowledge of this family history. All of these things are working on your side.

Boobytrap

Thanks for your kind supportive words. Just need to keep working on my headspace!