metastasis- my possible side effect

13catdragon

I was diagnosed 10/5/2005, if there is ever an ideal with breast cancer. I lucked out I was released fron oncology in 2010. Declared cancer free not cured. Clear mammograms. Whats not to like? 8 years later since I have female ancestors when they passed they had metastatic breast cancer. They didn't have the testing & progress we have. So I enter phase 2 of side effects. Blood test for cancer markers possible genetic testing. I have sister, brother, niece, grand niece ( 11)& grand nephew(9). I was told clear mammograms no worries. Metastatic breast cancer worries me. Am I the only 1 that feels this way?

Moderators

You are certainly not alone with your fears of recurrence.

We aren't sure if we are understanding correctly, but are you having genetic testing done? If not, maybe you want to at least have a conversation with a doctor about whether they can recommend it for you.

We are glad you found our community, and welcome you warmly.

edwards750

You are definitely not the only one by a long shot. I think that fear factor is ingrained in all of us when we are DX. It does lessen over time. We imagine every ache and pain is related to BC. It’s understandable to be concerned but don’t let that fear consume you.

Diane

gb2115

I worry too. I have a primary family member who is now stage 4 after being NED for 17 years. It was just kind of there one day. All my friends keep asking if I'm "in remission" and have I been cured, and won't it be great when I get to that 5 year mark because then i'm in the clear, and I keep thinking, um, not necessarily. I do worry about it. In fact, I kind of expect it to come back at some point. Maybe that's just me being negative, but even though my family member and I didn't have anything show up on genetic testing, it's all awfully similar. Our cancers. Makes me think it's something they just can't see yet.

edwards750

Dang 17 years? It seems we will never be in the all clear. While a recurrence can happen to any of us all we can do is what we are doing. What kind of BC did your family member have? I remember hearing about that women’s college basketball coach who had a recurrence after 20+ years and unfortunately passed away. That’s scary.

Good luck!

Diane

Musicgal

I am 12+ years out of diagnosis, treatment etc., and I knew that living with daily fear of recurrence or death is not living.

I am so grateful for each day- not a single being knows what might happen tomorrow. If I enjoy this moment, and the next, and do what is suggested ( annual mammos, self exam, hormone free/organic diet), then that is it. Worry is in my brain- if I spend quiet time aware of my passing thoughts, and seeing them only as thinking, then I can begin to see worry the same way. I highly recommend the anxiety pack on Headspace!! Great app. Even if you just do the free bit, your relationship to your worry will change.