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momkidsgrandkids38
momkidsgrandkids38 Member Posts: 43
edited May 2018 in Just Diagnosed With a Recurrence or Metastasis

am new to the forum. I was diagnosed in november of 2016 with IDC, stage 2, grade 3, 2/13 nodes triple negative. Had lumpectomy and 13 lymph nodes removed in December. Dr. Found IDCS in left breast. Suggested mastectomy.

Started chemo in February: AC-4 cycles, Taxol-12 weeks

After chemo decided to have bilateral surgery with reconstruction in July.

Did radiation 5weeks daily finished in November...

Now here I am awaiting my implant surgery scheduled for May 1st to find out yesterday that the cancer has returned in my lymph node... I'm at a loss I don't know what to do, think, or how to feel.. has anyone else had the same experience?

The surgeon doesn't sound hopeful because of the grade. The size based on screening is 1.2 cm i'm awaiting a consult with surgeon to discuss treatment plan.

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  • Georgia1
    Georgia1 Member Posts: 1,321
    edited April 2018

    I'm so, so sorry. I have not been in this situation, but a good friend had a recurrence after a masectomy, chemo and radiation and I've been helping her through it. Please know that treatment options do exist, and there are many good experts to consult. She has made it through another surgery and is now cancer-free on an AI. Hoping the best for you.

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  • momkidsgrandkids38
    momkidsgrandkids38 Member Posts: 43
    edited April 2018

    I'm glad to her your friend is doing well. That's encouraging to hear. I really don't know what to expect I'm awaiting a consult with another surgeon. My surgeon was at a loss he isnt comfortable with doing the surgery himself.

    It's been less than a year since I've had chemo and radiation. As it stands I can't do either again at least for now.

    Trying to stay hopeful it's just a bit much to process.

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  • KBeee
    KBeee Member Posts: 5,109
    edited April 2018

    Sorry you are dealing with this

    They should be able to do an Axillary node dissection, and there should be other chemo options. I had a friend who did Xeloda with a triple negative recurrence.

    It sounds like your surgeon is uncomfortable so you definitely need a second opinion at a large cancer center

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  • momkidsgrandkids38
    momkidsgrandkids38 Member Posts: 43
    edited April 2018

    Thanks for the advice Kbeee, Yes I am awaiting an appointment for second opinion. I will bring up your suggestions. I hope he/she has more to offer. In meantime I plan to avoid sugars and continue eating healthy.


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  • momkidsgrandkids38
    momkidsgrandkids38 Member Posts: 43
    edited April 2018

    I wanted to update everyone on my case. I had my second opinion yesterday with the surgeon to discuss options for my bc recurrance. This surgeon was assured me that the surgery could be done but he also informed me of the cost such as, extreme scar tissue, inability to see the lymph nodes, or nodes attached to vein due to radiations.

    Although my initial oncologist wasnt will to offer additional chemo as an option t h.g.h e surgeon referred me to another one. As it stands I will have surgery no matter what and once i met with the oncologist we will decide if chemo is an option because I've already had AC and Taxol

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  • Meow13
    Meow13 Member Posts: 4,859
    edited April 2018

    There are other chemo drugs that may work. So sorry you are going through this.

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  • momkidsgrandkids38
    momkidsgrandkids38 Member Posts: 43
    edited April 2018

    Well it has been two and a half long weeks since the recurrence. I was initially told that I couldnt have either surgery, radiation, or chemo again because of potential complications and there's a regiment for TNBC patients.

    Needless to say I had surgery on April 18th in which 2/3 lymph nodes were found to be cancerous.

    Now my primary OC wants to do the waiting game (watch & wait). I got a second opinion outside my medical group and that OC wants me to have a PET scan to rule out metastasis. The problem now is my primary is against the PET scan.

    I am now in limbo. I'm considering changing medical coverage but have already ran into potential roadblocks to do that.I'm at a loss for now.

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  • momkidsgrandkids38
    momkidsgrandkids38 Member Posts: 43
    edited April 2018

    Well it has been two and a half long weeks since the recurrence. I was initially told that I couldnt have either surgery, radiation, or chemo again because of potential complications and there's a regiment for TNBC patients.

    Needless to say I had surgery on April 18th in which 2/3 lymph nodes were found to be cancerous.

    Now my primary OC wants to do the waiting game (watch & wait). I got a second opinion outside my medical group and that OC wants me to have a PET scan to rule out metastasis. The problem now is my primary is against the PET scan.

    I am now in limbo. I'm considering changing medical coverage but have already ran into potential roadblocks to do that.I'm at a loss for now.

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  • KBeee
    KBeee Member Posts: 5,109
    edited April 2018

    Uuugh. You need a team of doctors who work together FOR you, and not for their egos. I would try to seek a few opinions soon. Sorry you are dealing with this.

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  • momkidsgrandkids38
    momkidsgrandkids38 Member Posts: 43
    edited May 2018

    Hell all,


    Great news long story short. I finally got approved to go to the city of hope in which the doctor ordered a PET scan. Everything was clear. As of 5.22.18 I got the results from the scan and I am cancer free no radiation or chemo needed.

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  • Georgia1
    Georgia1 Member Posts: 1,321
    edited May 2018

    That's terrific! I have been thinking of you and am so glad you got good care - and some good news.

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