Hi Newdelhi,

A very warm welcome to our forum, although I'm sorry to hear about your dilemma. I can understand why you are feeling sad and uncertain about the way forward at the moment.

What did your pathology results show after your surgery? If there was any lymphatic involvment, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body and your surgeon will naturally be keen to stop this from happening by killing any stray cells with chemo.

Triple negative breast cancer is a fast growing cancer and, you don't want to give it any chance to spread, which is why your oncologist wants you to have chemo. There are many different types of chemo and some have stronger side-effects than others, so don't let the thought of side-effects jeopordise your chances of survival. 

Have you had an oncotype DX test? This predicts how likely the cancer is to return and the likely benefit of having chemo. This might help you in reaching your final decision. Don't be afraid to discuss everything with your consultant or breast care nurse. They can be very helpful when you are trying to reach a decision. It can be useful to write down any questions you have in advance of your consultation, so that you don't forget anything important.

Breast cancer Care provide some very useful booklets on all types of primary and secondary breast cancer. They also have information on all types of breast cancer on their website breastcancer.org.uk. You may find their booklet 'Chemotherapy for breast Cancer' helpful.

Whatever you decide has to be your decision and yours alone and I hope that you make the right choice for you.

Do please keep in touch. There are many here who have triple negative breast cancer and I hope that some of them will be along to chat to you soon.

Kindest regards,

Jolamine xx