Lumpectomy March 18, 2014 ER+ PR+ Oncotype 43

MTDeborah,

So sorry you have to join us here, but we will try to help however we can.  

Yes, there is a lot to learn. I'd suggest taking it in small pieces by first starting with chemotherapy.  In the Chemotherapy forum, there may already be a thread started for those starting chemo in April.  If not, it's good to start a thread.  Or you can joint one that started earlier and learn from those who are a month ahead of you.  Since you have already had your lumpectomy, you may want to go to Surgery forum and visit threads on reconstruction or other topics. 

Also bc.org has a great deal of information to help you learn the lingo, understand what you may experience, and how to manage it.  Use the search option.  It is a simple way of finding what you need.  

Hi.  I cannot speak to the chemotherapy questions because I only did radiation after my lumpectomy in the winter/spring of 2010.  Radiation did not make me sick nor did I experience any hair loss.  By the end, I was just a bit more fatigued than usual.  The breast that had the BC is a bit smaller now than the other but, when you choose breast conservation surgery, that might be the end result.  I wear a bra with some light padding/form to it and it's not at all noticeable. I was 50 at the time I was diagnosed with ER+, PR+ and HER2- like you.  My oncotype score was lower which is why I did not do the chemo.  I'm four years out and recently had my uterus and ovaries removed, too. I was already in menopause so it hasn't been too bad though the recovery is a bit longer than I thought and I am in good physical shape and health.  It's a long road but you will make it.  Hang in there.  Feel free to send any private messages if you'd like.

MTDeborah,

It's ok to feel down right now.  Getting diagnosed with BC is not a pleasant event.  Things will get better when you go into fighting mode against the disease.  It is really good you have found us.  Please jump in and participate.  In this community someone will relate to whatever you are feeling and going through.  Many will have excellent answers to whatever question you pose.  The best, I have found, is that in time, even though you may be suffering, you can offer a bit of advice to help someone else.  And it is helpful to have a place to vent to people who completely understand what you are saying.  Initially I found it really hard to join in conversations, as a shy, former High Plains gal, but I'm over that now.