Worried about reoccurrence

Denise0704

Hi Everyone,

I was diagnosed with Stage IIB, Grade 3 cells, PR+ ER+ HER- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in May 2016. I had 2 rounds of chemotherapy followed by a lumpectomy and radiation. There was a small tumor in my right breast and a 2mm tumor in my lymph node. My tumor in my breast shrunk 90% after chemo and no trace of tumor in my lymph nodes after chemo. I wouldn't worry as much if my cells weren't Grade 3. Is Grade 3 the most aggressive form of breast cancer? Is it common to have grade 3 cells? Does anyone have Grade 1 cells. I've only come across Grade 2 and Grade 3 cells so far. Does anyone have a success story with Grade 3 cells they could share. I have a friend who had Stage 1 breast cancer while I was doing my chemo therapy. She is now dealing with a reoccurrence in her liver. How can it go from Stage 1 to Stage 4 in less than a year? Is it normal to think about this all of the time?

keepthefaith

Denise, I don't know how common each Grade is in relation to another, but having a higher grade usually means that chemotherapy is more effective than a lower Grade. So, it's kind of a double-edge sword, I guess. Unfortunately, there are many sides to BC and a lot of it is still a mystery to science. Once your are DX'd, I think the thought of a recurrence will always be with you, at least in the back of your mind. As time goes by, the worry will most likely lessen. If you will do things to empower yourself, you will probably worry less. Exercise, eat healthy, journal, volunteer, meditate, take care of yourself, be there for your friend. There are no guarantees for any of us, but you will have a better quality of life. My Biopsy pathololgy was Grade 3, my SX pathology was Grade 2. I guess that makes me 2.5! Best wishes.

Moderators

keepthefaith, it is great advice. Fears of recurrence are very normal Denise0704.

Here are some links that you may find helpful:

10 Ways to Manage Fear After Diagnosis

Mindfulness ased stress reduction

We're all here for you, and glad you found this amazing community.

Meow13

Denise, grade 3 can actually be better, as chemo can be very effective knocking it out. Sometimes grade 1 can be more insidious. You should be very encouraged by your results so far. Good luck.

Adelozier

Hi, hope I'm posting this in the right place ... 14 months passed diagnosis. Masectomy. no Reconstruction... found a hard pea size lump deep in my arm pit in the shower today right where my "dog ear" flaps over my bra and my bra digs into me. I also have been working out ..weight training ect... could this be anything BUT a reoccurance? Crying as I'm a young mom..and hinesrlt cant handle anymore.