Newly diagnosed TNBC Stage 3A BRCA1 positive looking for hope

Arynrachel

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I'm new to the community so please forgive any mis-steps.

I'm 26 years old recently diagnosed with TNBC...I have an approximately 4 cm tumor in my breast with one node involvement...as far as they can tell from scans no mets and no spread.

Doing 4 rounds of AC followed by Tax and Carboplatin...planning on the double mastectomy followed by radiation.

Just had my second round of chemo and my tumor is already significantly smaller which has been a HUGE relief but the AC is totally kicking my ass with these flu like symptoms. I'm also getting the neutrophil shot and a hormone shot to shut down my ovaries during the chemo.

Are there any success stories out there for stage 3A TNBC? I have a 4 year old son and I get so distraught thinking of not being here for him...i also know BC are generally more aggressive in younger women? Is this true? Any advice is whole heartedly appreciated.

waytooanxiousmommy

Hello Arynrachel:

I am so sorry to hear about what you are going through. I too have a grade 3 tnbc cancer and have just completed 5 months of chemo. I have two boys 11 and 15 and it really hurts to think of leaving them. They are not ready to lose their mother. My 15 year old had depression following my diagnosis. With a 4 year old it is natural to feel terrified. All we can do is let go of what we cannot control and take care of ourselves.

During chemo I did a 30 minute video with strength, cardio and weight exercises almost every day. I made myself even when I felt terrible and I also ate very well. I gave up all refined carbs and upped my fruits and veggies. This really helped me to feel strong and minimized side affects. With these lifestyle changes I lost 15 lbs during chemo.

Don't worry if you do less or more than I did to be healthy as it is hard and you might feel too sick to do too much. Its just important to take care of yourself. Get as much support as possible and be as healthy as you can possibly be. I am in several support groups and I have a therapist.

Lifestyle changes and choosing a good team of doctors are the only things that we have control of. Cancer is a crapshoot and so just pray and do what you can do and let go of the rest.

We will all die one day. None of us know what will finally kill us. I decided I was going to enjoy each moment even during chemo by staying as healthy as possible. All we have is the present because tomorrow is never guaranteed regardless of wether you have cancer or not.

Love and hugs to you

Moderators

Arynrachel, we are very sorry you are joining us all here. waytooanxiousmommy makes some excellent points. Take control over what you can: health lifestyle, exercise and surround yourself with supportive people. There are many very positive stories here! Hang in there, and know we're all here for you!