Help - SOOOO SCARED!

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  • CypressCynthia
    CypressCynthia Member Posts: 4,014 Member
    #42
    Just wanted to share my
    Just wanted to share my story. I was 33 when diagnosed with Stage 3 (large tumor, 4 nodes). My tumor was estrogen and progesterone positive. I had a left-sided mastectomy followed by chemo and tamoxifen. After chemo, I had radiation.

    That was 25 years ago! I am sure that my treatment was less than perfect, but I was very compliant and lucky enough to have a tumor repsonsive to treatment and here I still am.

    Coping was very hard for me, especially the first few years. Anxiety and depression are about 25% more common in cancer patients, so let your medics know if you are really overwhelmed. The medics can really help with this. Antidepressants can help, but, especially if you end up on tamoxifen, make sure your antidepressant is ok (paroxetine, buproprion and fluoxetine can interfere with treatment).
    Cancer and Depression
    http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/depression/Patient/page2

    I believe, from what you are sharing about NHS, it may be wisest for you to get treatment started before asking for a second opinion.

    As far as doses, etc., I have to confess that I never asked (and I am a nurse practitioner). I just tried to do what I needed to do. I have gotten a few second opinions along the way, mainly to reassure myself that I was doing everything I could do.

    You should soon find out the status of your tumor: whether or not there are estrogen and progesterone receptors and Her2Neu status. More about that here:
    Tumor Characteristics
    http://ww5.komen.org/BreastCancer/TumorCharacteristics.html

    Hang in there! And welcome to the message board you didn't want to belong to, but we welcome you with open arms. Hugs and prayers.
  • Megan M
    Megan M Member Posts: 3,000
    #43
    Pinky68 said:

    You'll get through this!
    So glad you found this site early! Everyone here will help you through this, the pink warriors are a great bunch!

    I agree with getting a second opinion as it made a big difference for me. Keep gathering information and posting and know that your in thoughts and prayers.
    Joyce

    Sending a warm welcome to
    Sending a warm welcome to you and a huge hug!


    Megan
  • Megan M
    Megan M Member Posts: 3,000
    #44
    Pinky68 said:

    You'll get through this!
    So glad you found this site early! Everyone here will help you through this, the pink warriors are a great bunch!

    I agree with getting a second opinion as it made a big difference for me. Keep gathering information and posting and know that your in thoughts and prayers.
    Joyce

    Sending a warm welcome to
    Sending a warm welcome to you and a huge hug!


    Megan

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