Hello Joy,
You are not alone. I had DCIS, and I know someone who had the same type of cancer you are dealing with - she came through with flying colors, and she was only 23 when she got it.
I had radiation therapy for 7 weeks. There's nothing to it, it doesn't hurt, you may get a little "sunburned", and the main thing is you have to show up every day. It might make you anemic and a little tired, but compared to what you have already endured, it's a piece of cake.
May I recommend a very good book I picked up last year called "Cancer Vixen" by Marcella Acocella Marchetto. I think it is something we can relate to. I loved the format, she has a great sense of humor! And I hear a movie based on this book is in the works.
Please keep us posted on your progress, and may God bless you!
Hi, Joy. I had my last chemo last Friday. On June 4th I have another Pet Scan and then on the 11th I meet with the surgeon again. Here's my latest concern. Maybe you can help. Did you have one breast removed or both? My sister is a doctor and she told me that it might be better to have both removed at once because if the 2nd is still unaffected they won't have to dig into the muscle in the arm and remove lymph nodes on that side. Recently I have had 2 people (a doctor and a nurse) say that this is not a good idea because it makes healing that much more difficult. On one of the cancer sites, however, I read that of the women who elected to have both removed at once, (I don't recall the exact number) a very large percentage of them (in the 80 - 90 % range) said they were glad they did. I know this type of cancer (infammatory breast cancer) likes to show up later in the other breast, lungs, bones or liver. I just feel it would give me a little more peace because at this point any little pain or twinge sends up red flags, "oh no, is this cancer showing up here?" Any comments, anyone? Also, how bad is recovery from the surgery? My daughter (who is sometimes known for her negativity) says, "You don't realize it, but you won't even be able to wipe your own butt!" I would like to hear from someone who actually has been through the surgery, someone who knows first hand. Waiting for your replies...........
Hi Joy, You are so right it really helps to talk with women who have been there. Be sure to look into local support groups. I chose to not have reconstruction and to have the unaffected breast removed. I am so relieved now because it will not be able to go there. Keep me posted as to how your doing or if you are just having a down day or whatever I can help with. 3 years survival
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Joy or anyone: updates on this discussion? Would like to know if possible.
Hi all. Sorry, I lost my log-in info and have been gone a long time. As you can see I'm still alive and in remission. I did opt to have both breasts removed and my surgery was incredibly easy. No problems at all. Knowing ibc is incurable keeps me waiting for the other shoe to drop. I have full body pet scans every 4 months and so far so good. I'm doing well physically but being in limbo is difficult. The only problems I have are short-term memory loss and finding clothing without darts. Please continue to write.......sorry I deserted you all.
