So hard not to get caught up in the numbers...

wrsmith2x
wrsmith2x Member Posts: 410
edited June 2014 in Just Diagnosed With a Recurrence or Metastasis

In 2007 after the lumpectomy, chemo and radiation I was told that there was a 93% chance that I would never have to deal with breast cancer again.  Four years, 1 month and 3 days later they found it again.  Now because of the recurrence in less than 5 years they are telling me that there is now a 40% chance that the beast will come back.   I didn't worry when I had 93% chance but now......its so hard not to get caught up in the numbers.  I keep telling myself that there is still 60% chance that it won't come back and not focus on the 40% but it is very difficult.

Anyone had two Triple negative breast cancer bouts and then get mets later?  I've pretty much resolved myself to knowing what will kill me but just not knowing when.  Crazy, huh?  And don't recommend "happy pills" cause I'm already on them.

Just venting.  I thought I was strong.....don't feel so strong now. 

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Comments

  • sweetbean
    sweetbean Member Posts: 1,931
    edited May 2012

    I'm so sorry that you are going through this again.  I don't have any experience with this, but I just want to tell you not to pay attention to the numbers.  All of those statistics are based on women who went through treatment 10 years ago - it doesn't take into account treatment options, adherence to treatment, diet, lifestyle, etc - there are lots of factors that don't get taken into account.  

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  • weety
    weety Member Posts: 1,163
    edited May 2012

    Are they positive it is a recurrence and not a second cancer? 

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  • wrsmith2x
    wrsmith2x Member Posts: 410
    edited May 2012

    Positive it is a recurrence.

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  • dogsandjogs
    dogsandjogs Member Posts: 1,907
    edited May 2012

    I was given an 85 percent change that my cancer would not recur after a mastectomy/reconstruction. This was in 1982 so no other treatment was given. So far so good,

    BUT, two years ago I found a new primary in the other breast.   I had never even considered a new cancer, only worried about a recurrence.

    So you just never know.

    Wishing you the best and try to avoid dwelling on the numbers

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  • fredntan
    fredntan Member Posts: 1,821
    edited May 2012

    They told me 30% when i saw MO. Really didnt hear much after that



    I just finished tx like two days ago. I know i have to give myself time.



    I know i will exercise like crazy, use that vitamixer, etcetc. I got all these things i am going to do to prevent reaccurance



    But right now i feel like a scared bunny. Afraid to move



    Thats it i am going to take walk. Cant walk far but maybe i can walk what i did yest.

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  • fredntan
    fredntan Member Posts: 1,821
    edited May 2012

    I did it. Went for walk. Talked to a neighbor.



    She reminded me that those statistics dont look at eachbindividual

    And that wevhave to be mentally strong

    Dont listen to those numbers

    Putbon your fighting gloves and tell this cancer to F off

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  • Sian65
    Sian65 Member Posts: 99
    edited May 2012

    I get it completely.... I have horrible stats - 80-90% chance of recurrance within 3yrs!@%&!   For me I don't like the idea of "fighting" or "being brave" - to me those expressions some how imply you have some choice and/or control.  I just comply and adhere - do everything I'm told to do... then no matter what it will be no regrets.

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