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Lymph nodes cancer return

KittyKat1
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I had a lumpectomy in March 2019 and then it was discovered I had cancer in my lymph nodes. I went for a total clearance but it had to be abandoned as my heart went into AFib, I had never had this condition so it was a shock all around. Last year they discovered I still had cancer in my lymph nodes and that really threw me. They changed my medication and I was given hormone implants for around 10 months. They are keeping a close eye on me with CT scans and the cancer seems to be staying where it is. However they found ‘something’ on my spine. It is too deep for a biopsy and they should no more by my next CT scan by its appearance etc.An MRI isn’t on the cards due to my weight. I just feel very confused about it all and realise I’m not a good candidate for surgery but I don’t know what my prognosis is if that makes sense? My thoughts seem to be all over the place. Thanks for reading this long message  

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    Hi KittyKat1, 

    Thank you for sharing your story and I can imagine it must have been a bit of a shock to find out last year that you still had cancer in your lymph nodes and to have had to change your treatment as a result. I am sorry to hear that the cancer seems to be staying where it is and that they have found something on your spine. It's good that they are keeping a close eye on you though with regular CT scans and I hope that they find out more soon when you have your next CT scan.

    It's normal to be confused after everything you've been through and it's difficult really to get any accurate estimates when it comes to prognosis as no one can really be sure but it is worth perhaps discussing all this with your medical team, sharing with them your fears and worries and being honest with them as to how confused this is making you feel. I hope that you will get more answers soon once you get the CT scan results - I am keeping everything crossed for you. 

    Many members of our forum will relate to this feeling you describe of having your thoughts all over the place and I hope that you will get some reassurance and clarity soon as there is nothing harder than not knowing fully what is going on or feeling like there are many pieces missing in this puzzle. It can all feel a bit overwhelming at times and if you would like to talk things through with our cancer nurses, don't hesitate to call them on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Lucie

    Thank you Lucie, I have tried to ask questions and I don’t seem to get anywhere. But I will try again and ask for some clarity this time. It can be all about the wording sometimes! Thanks again x

  • Offline in reply to KittyKat1

    Hi KittyKat,

    I am sorry to hear about how confused you feel, but this is certainly not unusual. I am glad to hear that your care team are keeping a close eye on your breast cancer and to know that it remains stable. As Lucie says, a prognosis is at best a 'guesstimate' of what time we have. It is based on average figures and, as none of us are average people, a prognosis can be way out. 

    I expect that your care team won't be able to tell you much until after they see the results of your CT scan. Do you know when you are due to have this? It can be difficult to remember what questions you want to ask during a consultation. You might find it helpful to write down any questions you have before you go. I always did this and took my hubby with me to write down the answers. It can also be difficult to remember everything that is said at a consultation. Do you have someone you could take with you to your next appointment?

    I sincerely hope that you get clarification soon. Please keep in touch and let us know how you're getting on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

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