The news isn't good

Hopeful

I had IDC and 1 node involved, G3. Once you know the pathology from your biopsy, you should/will have choices.

I had choices, I could have my chemo before or after surgery. I chose surgery first, I wanted it gone.  I had the option of lumpectomy ( was told I would have to have radiation if I chose this), I chose Nipple and skin sparing bi-lat mastectomies (no radiation, I was re-evaluated for rads at the end of chemo and RO said not necessary due to micromet, ALND and MX).  Because of the positive node, I was told I would have the ALND. I lost 14 nodes.  I was not given a choice for the sentinel node biopsy.   I am a triple positive, My chemo was TCH.  6 treaments 3 weeks apart and the H weekly.

I just now have some range of motion difficulties after the LD Flap.  I have very good ROM before.  I started seeing a Lymphadema specialist right after Mastectomy and ALND to learn how to care for that arm and avoid L. (so far so good). I start PT this week.

There are new drugs now, from when I was DX.  I wish there was a vaccine also.  I know there are several tests that are ongoing.

Huggs

Vivian

Yes, Hopeful, I received Chemo (TCH x 6) and still am on Herceptin (one year) And while it wasn't a walk in the park, it was very doable.  There are many medications that help ease the side effects. There is icing of the mouth and nails to avoid mouth sores or nail lifting.  There are cold caps to help you keep your hair.  Once you know what is being recommended, you can join that thread and start with other ladies who are starting same as you. You can also read back to what was done by other to manage side effects. By far the first chemo was the scariest for me, because I did not know how I would react, once I knew what to expect you put a plan in place to help avoid and to rest as much as you need to.

If you read below our posts you can read our diagnosis, treatments, surgeries etc.

Chemo for me was important. Althought I had a clean PET scan and my tumors were fully removed in surgery, I still had a micromet to a lymph node. Chemo was to take care of any errant or tiny cell, that may have been traveling in my blood or lymph system or taken up residence somewhere but too small to detect.  I am glad chemo was available for me.  I would imagine soldier cells, seeking, conquering and destroying any errant cells in my body.

In your pocket tomorrow,

Vivian

Hopeful:

I just felt moved to pop on here and let you know that  you can go through whatever is necessary to get to the other side of this temporary tunnel.  You keep your eyes on that tiny little speck of light ahead and watch as it gets bigger and bigger.  Before you know it this will all be your testimonial for someone else who unfortunately has to go through it.  You will wear the title "warrior"  God bless you. 

I personally haven't met a onco. that specializes in breast cancer only, but I bet in the larger metropolitan areas there are such specialists. Yes, you do have to see them a lot, especially at first. At least monthly, even if all is well. Then they change you to quarterly,etc as time goes on if no problems appear. Where my onco. practices, the chemo is one floor up. The practice is connected to the hospital so is very convenient for testing. Do any of your friends have any one they can recommend? The breast surgeon will also recommend someone. But, remember, lots of people get 2 opinions. My sister in law changed breast surgeons before her biopsy and was very happy that she did. 

I will certainly be thinking of you tomorrow and be in your "pocket" as we call it around these boards!

Dear Hopeful: it does help to have a plan in place doesn't it! Keep us informed about how you are doing. There are lots of women on these boards that are very sharp and can answer lots of questions. Start your binder with all of your results in it. I asked my insurance for a nurse navigator which has been helpful. She hasn't been able to help with approval of tests, but can see screens that regular customer service reps. aren't able to see. 

thanks, Kayb for the info!

Mischief, I think things do tend to vary by area and by surgeon. I notice your dx is not that dissimilar to mine but don't know how large an area of LCIS I had, also my BS in Boston is affiliated with the large centers in that area and is very "into" sentinel node biopsy methodology, hence I was fortunate to only have the one node taken. Also lumpectomy was suggested even with ILC so it all really does vary, although I never asked about mx. I did not mind the radiation at all apart from some fatigue. It really was OK for me.

Hopeful, just wanted to add all my best wishes and hope for the very best possible results. The ER/PR+, HER2- sounds like very good news.