Stage 4 breast cancer

Hello all, I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, had a lumpectomy, 13 lymph nodes removed, 6weeks  radio , then Tamoxifen for 5 years and yearly mammograms for 10 years. There was no spread from the single tumour.. After being unwell for several months I have now been diagnosed with Grade 4 breast cancer with metastasis in my lung and brain, it has come as such a shock after being fine for 15 years. I have had surgery to remove the brain tumour and am taking Letrozole and the hormone treatment seems to be keeping the things under control.My balance is still poor but don't really know how long it takes to recover after brain surgery. Does anyone have any similar experience ? 

Parents
  • Hi Eileenp.  Sorry to hear that you have joined those of us in the Stage 4 club.  I, like you, had a long disease free period - I had 9 years free when I had recurrence this year.  I can vouch for the shock!  I had spread to my liver and pleural wall.  Although I can't answer your question, I wanted to know that I am thinking about you and wishing you well.  I know you will find support from many great people on here.

  • Thank-you so much for your kind words and support. You think you're out of the woods then your life has changed in a second. Sadly my best friend died in a car accident between my brain tumour diagnoses and op. 40years of friendship and support, I miss her so much but I have a supportive family so am fortunate. Are you on Hormone therapy? I wish you all the best, take care.

    Eileen 

  • Yes I'm on Exemestane which makes me really tired and I can feel the weight going on. I also get stomach cramps with it but I just keep going with it.  If it does what it's supposed to do, it will be worth it!

  • Hi, is that hormone or a chemo treatment? I think all drugs have side effects, I feel sick after taking mine and are back on the hot flushes, thought I had seen the last of them when I finished Tamoxifen. I had lost 1.5 stones before this diagnosis so am pleased to have regained half of that! Take care and best wishes 

     

Reply
  • Hi, is that hormone or a chemo treatment? I think all drugs have side effects, I feel sick after taking mine and are back on the hot flushes, thought I had seen the last of them when I finished Tamoxifen. I had lost 1.5 stones before this diagnosis so am pleased to have regained half of that! Take care and best wishes 

     

Children