Jill

Its not so much the stage & grade of cancer that determines treatment but the type & it may be that your Mum & friend have different types of BC.  Sine I was diagnosed in July last year its been a very rapid learning curve and rest assured you & your Mum will have lots to learn so please don't assume anything, in particular that two people who may appear to have the same BC will react the same, get the same treatments etc.

Due to my type of BC (you can read my profile) I had chemo from the start and found it OK, there were some visits to A&E and a change of planned treatment but as a stoic northerner I was able to take this all in my stride and did not suffer from nausea or sickness at all throughout.  Please do bear in mind that there are people who tolerate chemo well and it can be those who encounter difficulties that you will hear & read the most about.

I would suggest to answer you query find out the exact diagnosis of your Mother's friend and ask your Mother's support team (breast care nurse) when you next see them as then you'll get an answer that is factually based and relevant to your Mother's diagnosis.

Good luck to both of you.

Sam