Hi there ...

Well yes I'm a grade 3 breast cancer lass ... her 2 neg oestrogen positive ... I had a total right masectomy in July 2017 .. because of lots of health problems, l thought like you, quality over quantity... so I took my chances on no treatment ...... l had a new look on life, to take every day as it came... not look ahead ... take nothing for granted.., and find something everyday to make me smile ...

I'm not saying to anyone else to do this ... all I'd say is take a little time, weigh up all the fors and against and you are the only one that can decide ... I made my decision and I knew it could go either way, but at least it was what I wanted ... I told my oncologist, I know he deals with cancer every day .. but this is my cancer and I would decide on which way forward ... I had an amazing Dr, who supported me all the way .. and said he would be there if I change my mind or want treatment ... not many are like that ..

Yes I'm glad I did, as I'm still here, and doing ( touch wood) really well ... so I'd say .. look at everything .. and whatever decision YOU come too .. don't look back with regret either way ... sending a vertual hug.. Chrissie... x

Hello Asblueasanaprilsky,

I am replying because I 'get' your reasoning though my situation was different. I was diagnosed as being grade 2 breast cancer in October 2019. 
The treatment plan was a breast reduction to remove the tumour followed by 15 sessions of radiotherapy and then a course of hormones. I thankfully didn't need chemo. 
 

I too thought long and hard about having the radiotherapy. It certainly can adversely affect one's future health. As you say the worst thing being  affecting your heart. I talked to the oncologist and BCN and weighing everything up I felt it was worth the risk in the end. I am concerned the after affects will stop me exercising in the future or even end my life prematurely. In the meantime I keep myself as fit as possible and try and swim 6x a week. Hoping for the best I think it's called!!!! 
 

I decided against the hormones after about 5 months. I felt depressed and my joints were so painful. I want to live for the rest of my time on the earth. Not be crippled up owing to the medication I am on!!!! 
 

So I have done more or less as I am told apart from the hormones and yes I am worried about the affects of the radiotherapy. As Chris's says it's a very personal decision. No one can really help you with it other than tell you our stories. 
 

The radiotherapy may not adversely affect us of course. We may strike it lucky!! Right now I am in the positive zone.  I am quite fit and I exercise every day and eat well. I plan to remain like this for as long as I draw breath!!! 
 

I wish you good luck. Stay well whatever your decision!!

Kebbs x 

Hello, 

I completely understand where you are coming from, it sounds like you have already made up your mind about Chemo. I think that all our Situations are different, I'm 38 and having Fec-t for BC im also Grade3 I'm half way through, for me it wasn't a choice it was a must, I have two young sons and I feel I need too throw everything at this.

i completely get what you are saying though, everyone reacts differently to chemo but I must admit it is tough. 

Maybe talking it through with your Oncologist would be good, my Tumor was sent too America for a Oncotype Dx score to see if Chemo was beneficial,. 
 

Sometimes you have to follow your instincts. Xx