I was told by my breast consultant surgeon that there were various options after my lumpectomy and axillary lymph node clearance. I could have chemotherapy but she thought it would be harsh for someone of my age (81) but radiotherapy followed by a hormone blocking tablet were in her opinion the best route forward. However I was told that there would be an appointment with the oncologist and he would discuss chemotherapy, bisphosphonates and immunotherapy treatment. I asked him what would be the difference in potential effectiveness of chemotherapy versus radiotherapy and he said 5%so I confirmed that radiotherapy was my preference and I have finished my 20 sessions. The oncologist gave me a precription for Letrozole and Adcal d3. I am continuing to take Letrozole despite its side effects but have temporarily abandoned Adcal until I see my GP in two days' time because of its effect on my bowels. I shall ask my doctor if I can have a blood calcium test to check if extra calcium is strictly necessary. I received a letter, with copy to my GP, recommending that I should be prescribed the bisphosphonate alendronic acid. This matter was supposed to be discussed at a later date with the oncologist, not forced on me without adequate discussion.

You are right to have queries about your future treatment. For me it is a matter of personal choice because I want to live out the rest of my days feeling I can cope without having my system burdened by excessive medication. I can tolerate the Letrozole despite the unwelcome side effect of permanent indigestion and occasional abdominal pain. I already suffer from fibromyalgia and the resultant walking difficulty so I shall reject taking other powerful drugs. I have come to this decision after looking at all the pros and cons and the risk of recurrence. When you see your oncologist I hope you are given all the necessary information and enough time to consider what is the right thing for you.

Wishing you good luck

Anne. 

I was told by my breast consultant surgeon that there were various options after my lumpectomy and axillary lymph node clearance. I could have chemotherapy but she thought it would be harsh for someone of my age (81) but radiotherapy followed by a hormone blocking tablet were in her opinion the best route forward. However I was told that there would be an appointment with the oncologist and he would discuss chemotherapy, bisphosphonates and immunotherapy treatment. I asked him what would be the difference in potential effectiveness of chemotherapy versus radiotherapy and he said 5%so I confirmed that radiotherapy was my preference and I have finished my 20 sessions. The oncologist gave me a precription for Letrozole and Adcal d3. I am continuing to take Letrozole despite its side effects but have temporarily abandoned Adcal until I see my GP in two days' time because of its effect on my bowels. I shall ask my doctor if I can have a blood calcium test to check if extra calcium is strictly necessary. I received a letter, with copy to my GP, recommending that I should be prescribed the bisphosphonate alendronic acid. This matter was supposed to be discussed at a later date with the oncologist, not forced on me without adequate discussion.

You are right to have queries about your future treatment. For me it is a matter of personal choice because I want to live out the rest of my days feeling I can cope without having my system burdened by excessive medication. I can tolerate the Letrozole despite the unwelcome side effect of permanent indigestion and occasional abdominal pain. I already suffer from fibromyalgia and the resultant walking difficulty so I shall reject taking other powerful drugs. I have come to this decision after looking at all the pros and cons and the risk of recurrence. When you see your oncologist I hope you are given all the necessary information and enough time to consider what is the right thing for you.

Wishing you good luck

Anne.