I've made my decision but I'm still agonizing over it.....

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rn4babies
rn4babies Member Posts: 409
edited June 2014 in Stage I Breast Cancer
After seeking a second opinion from an oncologist with a great reputation at a large teaching hospital, I've decided to proceed with chemo. I called my primary onco's office today informing them of my decision. (He also recommended chemo).  Most everything I have researched is consistent with their recommendations but I'm still agonizing that it may be to aggressive. I'm 48 years old. I had multifocal IDC/ILC which was a new primary from a diagnosis of DCIS in the opposite breast less than 12 months ago. Stage 1, Grade 3, Oncotype 27. Why am I questioning myself so much? Even my gynecologist called me and strongly recommended chemo based on his knowledge and my high-intermediate oncotype.  I have a very strong family history but am BRCA neg. I need reassurance that I'm making the right decision!

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  • pupmom
    pupmom Member Posts: 5,068
    edited May 2012

    I think you're doing the right thing. You have Grade 3 and a high Oncotype score. It's what I would do in your shoes. Best wishes! Those who have had chemo on the board say it's nowhere as bad as the horror stories from olden days.

  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Member Posts: 1,376
    edited May 2012

    I wanted to avoid chemo. Was on the fence ..waiting for an oncotype score.  Score came back as 15 and MO recommended no chemo.  To be honest with you, I would have had to think long and hard about doing chemo even if it came back intermediate. 

    That being said... if I were in your shoes...because of the oncotype score of 27, the grade 3, and the indication that your breasts seem to have a knack for making cancer... I'd do chemo and wouldn't think twice about it.

    Also I notice you are PR- with this recent diagnosis.... I don't know where I read it..but I thought I've read that PR- tends to be a little more aggressive (as opposed to ER/PR+) and will respond better to chemo.  I could be totally wrong but you could ask your MO about that. :)

    Best of luck to you and I hope you come to peace with your decision.  

  • cooka
    cooka Member Posts: 278
    edited May 2012

    Congratulations on making a decision, it is so tough to wrestle with all the different sides of this. I completed Taxotere/Cytoxan a few months ago if you have any questions...best to you! Anne

  • JoanQuilts
    JoanQuilts Member Posts: 633
    edited May 2012

    You made the decision I would have made - in other words, the RIGHT one, LOL!

    Best of luck - we're all here to help you through your chemo.

  • kjiberty
    kjiberty Member Posts: 1,385
    edited May 2012

    M4babies:  I had the same oncotype score and was advised by both my BS and MO to go for chemo.  I consider myself fortunate on only need T/C x 4.  I go tomorrow for #2.  

  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited May 2012
    Congratulations on making a decision. It is very tough to wade through all the options and details. Go, girl, go!

  • mdg
    mdg Member Posts: 3,571
    edited May 2012

    I am sorry about all of this.  I had to decide on chemo as I was in a gray area.  I did agonize over the decision horribly.  I did opt for the chemo and did TCx4.  I finished it a year ago last week.  I am glad I did it.  I can look back with no regrets.  I am doing well now and chemo was not that bad for me.  I hope you are just as lucky.  Hugs!

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

    You are making the right decision, definitely.

  • coraleliz
    coraleliz Member Posts: 1,523
    edited May 2012

    Rn-Another person who didn't do chemo chiming in to say "I would have done chemo with your numbers". There is a lot of support & camaraderie for those having chemo here on the boards. I also agonized over my decision(way too much).

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