Recurrence in breast 13 years after mastectomy

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Lionore1920
Lionore1920 Member Posts: 4
edited June 2021 in Just Diagnosed With a Recurrence or Metastasis

Hi Lovely People,


None of us asked to be here but I’m so glad that the fact that you all are in this club means that I’m not alone. I’m 74, and my initial dx was 1985; I know, the dark ages. I was 38, in a dysfunctional second marriage, with two son, 10 and 12. I had a left lumpectomy, radiation, radiation implant for 4) hours, and chemo. Gained a lot of weight, lost hair but somehow worked through it and drove myself to treatments. A mammogram in 2008 picked up a new cancer in a different part of that breast, had mastectomy and Arimidex for five years. Had yearly mammogram of the right, all good. A year ago noticed something pushing through the radiated skin, sent photos to PS who wasn’t concerned, suggested making appointment after Covid. Now it’s a malignant lesion, new wonderful BS did punch biopsy,, waiting for results but since MRI and pET scan and referral to oncologist are in the works this is no joke. I would love to hear from older ladies who have had chemo, radiation, etc. BS was upbeat about treatment. I want to live! Have great partner, family, grandkids friends, lots to live for. Can seniors tolerate treatment? Grateful to God for many blessings but would like more time if it’s His will.

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  • wallycat
    wallycat Member Posts: 3,227
    edited June 2021

    My DH was 80 when he had rads to some parts of his bones (metastatic prostate cancer) and is doing quite well. I know "rads" can be different for each of us, but wanted to post something positive.
    I'm so sorry you are dealing with this. I want to make some snarky comments about the god mention but will just move it along.

    It sounds like you have found a loving family, support and have the motivation and head set to do well. If your docs say you are able, there is no reason you will not succeed. Best to you!

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  • Carlsoda
    Carlsoda Member Posts: 249
    edited June 2021

    Lionore - I am so sorry 😞 I am dealing with a recurrence myself. Wanting to send you strength and prayers. He’s taking care of you!!

    Hugs!

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  • Lionore1920
    Lionore1920 Member Posts: 4
    edited June 2021

    I so appreciate your kindness Carlsoda! I go back and forth between panic and peace. I’m blessed to have made it across 3000 miles to visit my son and family. At 74, I’ve been a miracle, living with this for 36 years. I’m still in that awful limbo, knowing that it’s a recurrence, fearing that it’s inflammatory because of the redness on my chest and face, not yet scanned for mets or seen the oncologist. My faith tells me that all is well no matter what. We’re all on this journey together.

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  • Lionore1920
    Lionore1920 Member Posts: 4
    edited June 2021

    Thank you for your kindness

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  • Lee64
    Lee64 Member Posts: 184
    edited June 2021

    Hi, Lionore, I'm a senior diagnosed stage IV at 73. My first diagnosis was in 2010 and stage IV in 2019. I had a mastectomy, 16 chemo treatments, and 34 radiation treatments. I was shocked to have it return after 9 years but I am doing well so far on Ibrance and Fasoldex . my cancer is in my spine, rib, and I have lung nodules that are being watched. I have a CAT scan every 3 mos.

    I wish you the best and, if needed, I'm sure there will be a treatment that works for you. It's amazing how we find the strength and will to do what we do.

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  • Lionore1920
    Lionore1920 Member Posts: 4
    edited June 2021

    Hi Lee,


    Thanks so much for your reply. I’m in that in between stage, it will be another 9 days before all the scans are in and I will see the oncologist. I want to live! Trying to stay in today and not worry. Your experience is giving me hope

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  • abigailj
    abigailj Member Posts: 145
    edited June 2021

    Hi Lionore

    My stepmom was diagnosed at 89, had mastectomy and then radiation and has been on AIs (Anastrazole) for over 2 years now and tolerating it pretty well - just a little more stiffness/aches and a little less energy but not much difference than before so definitely doable even at that age


    Hope all goes as well as possible!

    Abigail

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  • LeslieZee
    LeslieZee Member Posts: 1
    edited June 2021

    Hi Lionore,

    I was diagnosed at age 70 with bilateral cancers, Left Multifocal IDC Stage pT1c and Right DCIS Stage 0. I didn't have to have chemo so I cannot speak to that. I had 3 lumpectomies with 2 nodes removed and had 15 sessions of radiation. I've been on Anastrozole for 15 months. I tolerated the radiation very well with just some freckling that showed up 3 months after last treatment which is completely gone now. The Anastrozole and notched up my arthritis a bit but not enough to change prescriptions or go off it. I'm praying for the best possible outcome for you. Let us know how you're doing.

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