Beginning the Journey
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Forum Name: Welcome New Members
Forum Description: A place to introduce yourself to our community
URL: http://forum.tnbcfoundation.org/forum_posts.asp?TID=7193
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Topic: Beginning the Journey
Posted By: JBBest
Subject: Beginning the Journey
Date Posted: Sep 30 2010 at 3:24pm
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I was diagnosed with TN on 10 September. Had a lumpectomy on 22 September. I have a great support network of mother, sisters (1 who is a BC survivior -not TN) and husband. At 56 and scheduled to retire in the next 2 months, this was not part of the "plan". Can someone help me to understand the fluid build up after the lumpectomy....when is it serious warranting doctor intervention? I hear it sloshing when I walk and today suddenly I feel pain in the side.
This site is great and I am so glad I found since there is so little info about TNBC. I pray each day that I am doing what is right.....chemo is next on the plate. I see oncologist in about 3 weeks.
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Replies:
Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Sep 30 2010 at 6:37pm
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Hello, just wanted to welcome you. Hopefully someone will come along and can help you with the lumpectomy problems. I had a bi-mastectomy so I'm not familiar with this problem. Have you had a chance to read the brochure about TNBC? http://www.lbbc.org/data/media/LBBCunderstandtriplenegative.pdf - http://www.lbbc.org/data/media/LBBCunderstandtriplenegative.pdf Donna ------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: JBBest
Date Posted: Sep 30 2010 at 9:09pm
| Thank you, I was not aware of the brochure about TNBC. I shall read it. I was really having problems finding about TNBC. |
Posted By: Lillie
Date Posted: Sep 30 2010 at 9:20pm
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Hello JBBest,
Welcome to the TNBC community. Sorry you have to be a part of it, but since you are you have come to a friendly, supportive place. I had a mastectomy and am not personally familiar with the sloshing fluid problem, but I have read several posts here from women having that exact problem. Someone will see your post soon and offer you some advice or support. Would you feel free to share more about your statistics; tumor size, stage, grade. I guess you don't know about your chemo regimen yet since you haven't seen the oncologist. God Bless, Lillie ------------- Dx 6/06 age 65,IDC-TNBC Stage IIb,Gr3,2cm,BRCA- 6/06 L/Mast/w/SNB,1of3 Nodes+ 6/06 Axl. 9 nodes- 8/8 thru 11/15 Chemo (Clin-Trial) DD A/Cx4 -- DD taxol+gemzar x4 No Rads. No RECON - 11/2018-12 yrs NED |
Posted By: Aletha
Date Posted: Sep 30 2010 at 10:18pm
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I had a lymp in 2007 and never had any fluid build up so I would say call your surgeon's office now and let them know. I would imagine it would not be anything serious, maybe just need draining but my oncologist and surgeon both told me to call with ANYTHING unusual. I have never been bashful to do so and maybe would not have found out about my TN this February had I not.
Good Luck ------------- 4/2007 stg2 lym,rad,chemo 12/2010 stg4 meds,tnbc lungs..carbo.genzar |
Posted By: TNBC_in_NS
Date Posted: Sep 30 2010 at 11:18pm
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Hi JBBEST:
Just dropping by to say hello and welcome to our website! You will find an abundance of information about triple negative breast cancer as well as any other subject you want to talk about or search for. We have some wonderful gals and guys who offer the most honest concern for each of one of us that have needs whether it is questions, help making decisions, prayers, comfort ideas, etc. So ask away and we will try to answer you as best we can. We are not physicians so our opinions are experienced based only...
I am so happy you have a great support system in place, this is so important! By now you have had your lumpectomy and you are now hearing and feeling the swishing of the fluid that is building in the empty hole where the tumor was... I was told that is normal. It will gel together with tissue, nerve endings, and fleshy parts inside, but some feel and hear this for a long time. I had to have mine re-incised due to staph infection two months after surgery and then had packing for the next four months. It started at 2.5 yards of 1/4 inch packing and wound down to two inches before we stopped packing. It was a very difficult time for me because the chemo didn't agree with me, the breast was sore all the time, H1N1 was rampant and I was alone most of the time. This foundation became my lifeline! It was wonderful! Is wonderful! I hope I have answered your question about the swishing.
If you notice a fever or redness at all go to the emergency department and tell them you are a breast cancer patient and get an ultrasound done on the area to ensure that all is good.
Keep us abreast of your journey and take care.
Hugs, Helen in NS
------------- Diag@57TNBC04/092.5cm Lquad 05/09 TCx4Radsx30CT03/01/10 FU03/31/10ClearBRCA- 01/2011 RTNBC BMX 06/14/2011~2013 clear |
Posted By: JBBest
Date Posted: Oct 01 2010 at 9:30am
| thank you. I talked with surgeon and was told not to worry unless I develop fever or redness, but will follow up with her on Monday. Joy |
Posted By: JBBest
Date Posted: Oct 01 2010 at 9:44am
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My story is probably like most. I thank you all for being there. I had a routine mamogram end of July, got a call back, had it redone, had ultrasound, biopsy and on 31 August was told that I had breat cancer. My world started spinning and has not stopped. As I met with my team of Doctors on September 10, I was told that I had TNBC. I was told that lumpectomy or mastectomy would be my choice as both have been found to have the same ultimate results. I have been told that I have infiltrating ductal carcinoma, grade 3, TN, invasive, T1, NO +1 and that the lumpectomy margins were clear, 1.7 cm, sentinel node biopsy shows traces of tumors, but they will not remove other nodes since I will have chemo. All of this is so confusing. I am 56 yrs old. I have appointment on Monday, 4 October, to discuss the treatment process. I know that the recommendation is to start with chemo and then radiation. My support is great thus far.....hoping that they will hold up thru it all.
Thank you all for being here.
Do the grades, numbers make sense? I will try to put it all together when I meet with docs on Monday. What else should I know?
How do I get my info listed like I see others?
God bless you all.
Joy
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Posted By: TracyAMac
Date Posted: Oct 01 2010 at 10:37am
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Hello and welcome As a fellow "newbie" I am here too if ever I can lend an ear or answer any questions. The folks on this site are very supportive and helpful. Like some of the others, I had a mastectomy so can't respond to your lump./swelling question though I did worry about some swelling around my mastectomy site after surgery. This is called a "seroma"; my doctor assured me it would go away over time and it did! though I understand sometimes they are drained if they persist. Grades are important as part of the pathology report - there are detailed medical definitions on line but but it usually boils down to a score out of 3 for each tumour based on various criteria such as rate of growth, tumour patters etc. My grade was 3/3 on my TN tumour and 2/2 on my non-TN tumour. A lower number is better but it is only part of the picture e.g. your margins were clear which is very good! Another thing to ask about is genetic testing to see if you have the mutation for the BRAC1/2 gene - Steve on this site is expert on this; I am in the middle of the testing process and would be happy to chat more about it. Tracy in Toronto ------------- TN&non-TN tumors April/10 Gr3&2;1 metaplastic Rmast.1/9 nodes w/isolated t.cells Taxotere&Cytoxan x6 Bone cancer 1980 age17;surgery&chemo AC+Methotrexate BRCA-ve On hormone therapy & Metformin Trial |
Posted By: CTB
Date Posted: Oct 01 2010 at 1:51pm
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Hi Joy: My stats are very similar to yours. I had a sentinel node biopsy of 5 nodes with no tumor involvement so only the 5 were removed. Approximately one week after my lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy I developed a seroma at the site of the node biopsy, not the lumpectomy site. I ended up having the seroma drained 4 separate times before it cleared on its' own. I could not start chemo until the seroma was totally cleared and this took about 3 weeks. The drainage process was no problem at all, the site was so numb I never felt a thing when it was drained all 4 times. I have not had any additinal problems at the incision site since then. Hope this helps. Chris ------------- Dx: 12/10/09; Lumpectomy and SNB 12/28/09 2.0 cm tumor 0/5 nodes; clear margins; TC x4 ended 4/10; 33 rads ended 7/6/10 |
Posted By: trip2
Date Posted: Oct 02 2010 at 7:49pm
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Hi and welcome,
Here are a couple of places where you can learn more about lymphedema,
http://www.lymphnet.org/ - http://www.lymphnet.org/
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/lymphedema/Patient - http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/lymphedema/Patient ------------- Stage 2 2003 Stage 1 2007 BRCA 1+ |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 03 2010 at 2:10pm
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Joy,
You and I have much in common. I'm so grateful to have found this website to share my journey as well as learn from others. My situation is so similar to yours. I am 58 years old and was diagnosed on 7/1/10 with IDC and was in shock. No one in my family had breast cancer nor did I have a lump. Routine mamogram found it. Had lumpectomy on 8/9/10 no positve nodes were found. Diagnosed stage 1 grade 3. My tumor was 1.8 cm. Was shocked to find out that I was triple negative. Radiation was all I had thought about once surgery was done. Very shocked once my report came back. I am blessed to have an incredible oncologist. Started Cycle 1 on 9/20 and will repeat every 3 weeks with cytoxan and taxotere. Keep up a positive attitude. It will sustain you during your journey. Good luck with your decision and would love to hear back frm you.
Wishing you peace and good health,
Fran
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Posted By: CTB
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 11:00am
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Hi Fran: I responded to Joy that my stats were very similar to her and now I see similar to yours also. I was 61 years old when I was diagnosed after having had my annual mammogram and my tumor was 2.0 cm. and there was no lymph node involvement. Like you I had a lumpectomy and thought at first that radiation was the only follow-up treatment I would need. I resisted having chemo at first but went through with 4 cycles of taxotere and cytoxin just like you are having. It was not always easy but I got through it and am now trying to see myself as a survivor. You WILL get through this, just hang in there. Chris ------------- Dx: 12/10/09; Lumpectomy and SNB 12/28/09 2.0 cm tumor 0/5 nodes; clear margins; TC x4 ended 4/10; 33 rads ended 7/6/10 |
Posted By: JBBest
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 3:33pm
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Thaks again to you all for being there!
Had follow up visit with surgeon today. My sloshing sound is normal and should go away within the month. Only thing I have to watch for is fever or redness.
 One node was positive for isolated tumor cells.
I meet with Oncologist Thursday to set up chemo routine.
The idea of chemo and the side effects really have we worried, but I guess it cannot be helped with TNBC and node involvement.....
Joy ------------- DX IDC 8/10; age 56; stage I; gd 3; Lumpectomy & SNB 9/10; 1.2 cm; 1/2 nodes isolated tumors; clear margins. Trial with mod sch ACT. AC every 2 wks X 6. T weekly X12 after. started 1 Nov 2010. |
Posted By: snugltz
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 3:50pm
| Fran you must be me. :) I am 58 also. Diagnosed during routine mammogram in late May. tumor was 1 centimeter with no lymph node involvement. Had lympectomy in June. Went to Stanford for second opinion on chemo. Also on taxotere and cytoxin. Have had three treatments, three weeks apart. Also Neulasta on the day after treatment. Have wanted to quit several times. But the doctor and my children and husband have convinced me to continue. It hasnt been easy for me. I think the Neulasta is nearly as bad. I start the 33 radiation treatments after this. My last chemo is Wednesday the 6th. |
Posted By: snugltz
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 3:51pm
| Oh I forgot. Stanford said with treatments it was a 90% chance of it never returning. 75 to 80 % with no treatment. What did your oncologist say? |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 6:26pm
| Wow! Always amazed how life brings people together. 4 cycles every 3 weeks were highly suggested. Prognosis very good plus I won't accept anything less. Very determined to get through this. Live 1 hour from Philadelphia and plan to run up the steps of the Philadelphia Museaum and do a Rocky Balboa like the movie. Would you like to join me when our radiation is complete? Radiation will occur after chemo but not sure of # of treatments at this time. Neulasta vvery difficult drug for me. No matter what happens along this journey I am very focused on whatever it takes to get well. Have changed my diet and incorporated reflexology and chiropratic into the mix. Also considering Reiki. Have you tried any alternatives to compliment the chemo? Looking forward to hearing from you again. |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 6:36pm
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Hi Chris,
Thanks for your encouraging and supportive message. How long has it been since you have completed your treatment? Did you have radiation after chemo? I'm so grateful to have other incredible women to share this journey with and they with me. Wishing you peace and sending positive energy your way.
Fran
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Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 7:23pm
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Fran, Try taking Claritin (regular, not D) to help with the bone pain from the Neulasta shot. It seems to relieve the symptoms. Donna ------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 7:26pm
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For our new members, if you'd like to put your information so that it shows up at the bottom of your posts like mine, just go to the upper left side of your screen. Click on Member Control Panel, then Edit Profile. Scroll down until you see Signature. Type your info in the box and scroll down to the bottom and click on Update Profile. This will save the information you typed. This helps others know about your dx, surgery, tx and you won't have to repeat yourself in your posts. Donna ------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 7:51pm
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Thanks Donna for your help. How are you doing since treatment?
Fran ------------- DX 8/9/10 Stage 1 Grade 3 1.8 cm, lymph node negative, age 58, 4 cycles chemo every 3 weeks starting 9/20/10 cytoxon and taxotere, radiation will follow,no family history or lump |
Posted By: CTB
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 7:56pm
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Fran: Yes I also had radiation after chemo. I had 33 sessions and finished on 7/06/2010. It was a happy day for me when I was done. Starting this whole process is tough, when you are finished you sit back and say "how did I do that?" At least that is how I felt. Like I said you'll get through this and yes, it does end. Let me know if I can help in any way. Chris ------------- Dx: 12/10/09; Lumpectomy and SNB 12/28/09 2.0 cm tumor 0/5 nodes; clear margins; TC x4 ended 4/10; 33 rads ended 7/6/10 |
Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Oct 04 2010 at 8:19pm
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Hi Fran, I'm doing well since treatment ended, trying to adjust to the new normal. Thanks for asking. Donna ------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: mhalm
Date Posted: Oct 07 2010 at 4:40pm
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Hi snugltz - I am with you I thought neulasta was almost worse than
chemo. I finished in April of this year. I did not want to go to the last one but my family and husband got me through it. I didn't know about claritin D, I would have taken it had I known. I just took motrin and that helped with bone aches. I remember one time saying the bone across my forehead even hurts 
Hi JBBest - Good luck I'm sure your scared about chemo and radiation. If it helps I worked fulltime during the whole treatment process. It was hard but it's doable. Please don't hesitate to ask me any questions It is still fresh in my mind. Good luck to both of you!! Mary ------------- DX 1/5/10, Stage I gr 3 TNBC Lumpectomy 1/15/10 6mm tumor 45 yrs old (46 now) 1 round Taxotere (allergic) 3 rounds AC 33 rounds radiation 3 kids, 14, 10, and 6 married 19 yrs BRCA 1/2- |
Posted By: JBBest
Date Posted: Oct 07 2010 at 8:55pm
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Met with my Oncologist today. Will start chemo in @ 2 weeks....will be participng siating in clinical trial using Adriamycin (Doxorubicin)/Cytoxan (Cyclophosphamide) and Taxol (Paxlitaxel).....followed by radiation. I hope that this will go well and am glad to see all of you that have made it thru the chemo and all the suggestions to help with the side effects.
Joy ------------- DX IDC 8/10; age 56; stage I; gd 3; Lumpectomy & SNB 9/10; 1.2 cm; 1/2 nodes isolated tumors; clear margins. Trial with mod sch ACT. AC every 2 wks X 6. T weekly X12 after. started 1 Nov 2010. |
Posted By: trip2
Date Posted: Oct 07 2010 at 9:05pm
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Hi JBBest, be sure and check out our chemo tips in the TNBC News/Resource section.
Lots of good tips in there you might like to read.
Best wishes, ------------- Stage 2 2003 Stage 1 2007 BRCA 1+ |
Posted By: snugltz
Date Posted: Oct 08 2010 at 2:25pm
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thanks for the reply mhalm. I had my last (hopefully) Neulasta shot yesterday. Apparently the Claritin D can be bad for blood pressure etc, so take only the Claritin. Or so my doc said. Although she had never heard of it being useful. Was going to look into it. I start radiation soon. Appointment on the 20th to decide. Was that as bad as the whole chemo/Neulasta deal? This whole ordeal is awful isnt it. And the fear of it all coming back. How you worked full time is beyond me. You are pretty amazing!!!I have spent lots of time in bed, both due to physical and mental issues. Guess I am a wimp. :) Was babysitting my twin grandbabies, but doc said no since they are frequently sick and not to be around sick people. So I miss them terribly. |
Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Oct 08 2010 at 2:40pm
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Snugltz, You are right about the Claritin. You want to take the plain kind, not the Claritin-D. Hope your next part is better for you. Donna ------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: mhalm
Date Posted: Oct 08 2010 at 2:48pm
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Hi Snugltz - The radiation is a walk in the park compared to chemo/ neulasta. Make sure you put on aloe gel or the creme they give you, it
really does help a lot. I have very fair skin but it didn't bother me as much as I thought. You are not a wimp. I had physical/mental issues also. It is not a easy process. It really takes it toll. I just tried to act normal for my kids but there were days I should have been at home. Half the battle is over for you just stay strong. it will be over soon and believe it or not you will go back to your "new" normal life. Good Luck, Mary ------------- DX 1/5/10, Stage I gr 3 TNBC Lumpectomy 1/15/10 6mm tumor 45 yrs old (46 now) 1 round Taxotere (allergic) 3 rounds AC 33 rounds radiation 3 kids, 14, 10, and 6 married 19 yrs BRCA 1/2- |
Posted By: snugltz
Date Posted: Oct 09 2010 at 12:56pm
| Thanks again mhalm. You give me a bit of light here. And you have it much worse. Have to work, have fairly young children. I retired three years ago so have the luxury of staying home. And as I said was babysitting my twin grandbabies which was lots of work, but also very rewarding. But they did go home at the end of the day. No worries about cooking for them, going to their activities etc. I am looking forward to starting again hopefully soon. My daughter also just had a baby so that is something exciting. But then one starts to think will this return and I wont be able to see them grow up. I wish you the very best. Thanks again |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 12:43am
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Chris,
Congratulations on completing your chemo/radiation journey. Now that you are moving on where do you go from here? Are you being monitored by your oncologist and breast surgeon? I'm very focused on being a survivor and incorporate the power of positive thinking into my daily life. On my good days I walk work out on my treadmill and use visual imagery. Have learned to adjust to a new normal. Your right! Some days are tough and you do wonder how you will get through. Neulasta injection was the worst for me. Having incredible woman to communicate with is so helpful. We need to learn from each other and provide a supportive network. Wishing you peace and good health! ------------- DX 8/9/10 Stage 1 Grade 3 1.8 cm, lymph node negative, age 58, 4 cycles chemo every 3 weeks starting 9/20/10 cytoxon and taxotere, radiation will follow,no family history or lump |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 12:47am
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Donna,
So glad you are doing well and adjusting to your new normal. What happens after treatment? Are you monitored by your oncologist and breast surgeon? Thanks for being supportive and helpful to the new arrivals along their journey. ------------- DX 8/9/10 Stage 1 Grade 3 1.8 cm, lymph node negative, age 58, 4 cycles chemo every 3 weeks starting 9/20/10 cytoxon and taxotere, radiation will follow,no family history or lump |
Posted By: Carol (Tenn)
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 5:32am
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Good Morning,
I have been reading your posts. It's absolutely amazing how anyone can work through treatment and many do. Just we always say, everyone is different.
Fran is andreamycin (sp) not a part of your treatment along with the cytoxin?
Also, I would like to invite you all to join us on the Spiritual Support thread if you feel the need.
Love and Prayers,
Carol ------------- St 2 Gr 3, A/C/T, DD Radiation x35 Rec chest wall 07/09 Radiation x28 NED 10/24/11 NED 10/5/12 NED 03/15/13 |
Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 7:38am
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Carol, I think Fran is getting the same chemo I had, Cytoxin and Taxotere. Fran, After treatment you'll be monitored by your oncologist, usually every 3 months for the first year. I had a bilateral mastectomy, so I only saw the breast surgeon after my mastectomy. My oncologist does all the self exams on me. I don't get mammos anymore. I saw my plastic surgeon regularly after surgery until I had my reconstruction surgery. Then it was 6 months and a year after surgery. ------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: Carol (Tenn)
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 8:02am
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Donna,
Do you think stage 1 has anything to do with that? ------------- St 2 Gr 3, A/C/T, DD Radiation x35 Rec chest wall 07/09 Radiation x28 NED 10/24/11 NED 10/5/12 NED 03/15/13 |
Posted By: 123Donna
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 8:30am
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My onc doesn't give A to Stage 1 patients with no nodal involvement. I know others do.
------------- DX IDC TNBC 6/09 age 49, Stage 1,Grade 3, 1.5cm,0/5Nodes,KI-67 48%,BRCA-,6/09bi-mx, recon, T/C X4(9/09) 11/10 Recur IM node, Gem,Carb,Iniparib 12/10,MRI NED 2/11,IMRT Radsx40,CT NED11/13,MRI NED3/15 |
Posted By: snugltz
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 2:09pm
| Carol what does the NED mean? I didnt get the "a" chemo due to it being very hard on the heart. I have some irrregular heart beats and occasionally atrial fib. The triple neg chemo doc at Stanford said to leave that one out. Just four Cytoxan and Taxotere. But normally her regiment was four cycles of Adriamycin and Cytoxan every two week, followed by four cycles of Taxol every two weeks, with Neulasta day after all reatments. Not saying she is right, just I have the paperwork showing her normal treatment...her preprinted paper. Also says Dose Dense. Whatever that means. I had no node involvement and was stage one, less thn centimeter. So I guess each doc has their own ideas. |
Posted By: Carol (Tenn)
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 2:11pm
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No Evidence of Disease....we like to dance with Ned...lol ------------- St 2 Gr 3, A/C/T, DD Radiation x35 Rec chest wall 07/09 Radiation x28 NED 10/24/11 NED 10/5/12 NED 03/15/13 |
Posted By: Carol (Tenn)
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 2:12pm
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Dose dense means every 2 wks instead of every 3...that's what I had. ------------- St 2 Gr 3, A/C/T, DD Radiation x35 Rec chest wall 07/09 Radiation x28 NED 10/24/11 NED 10/5/12 NED 03/15/13 |
Posted By: snugltz
Date Posted: Oct 12 2010 at 2:14pm
| THanks. I guess that is cause for dancing!!My prayers for that to continue in your life. |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 13 2010 at 11:05am
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Hello Carol,
Andreamycin not part of my treatment. Taxotere and Cytoxin are the 2 chemo drugs being used. Not sure what Andreamycin is. We discussed using Adriamycin but decided against it since it can cause heart problems. Thank you for your offer to be part of the Spititual Support Thread.
Sending Positive Energy, Peace and Blessings to you. ------------- DX 8/9/10 Stage 1 Grade 3 1.8 cm, lymph node negative, age 58, 4 cycles chemo every 3 weeks starting 9/20/10 cytoxon and taxotere, radiation will follow,no family history or lump |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 13 2010 at 11:27am
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Thanks Donna for your reply. Appears you are in very good hands with your doctors. You are correct - Taxotere and Cytoxin are the 2 chemo drugs that I'm taking. Had cycle 2 treatment yesterday. Had reaction to Taxotere; chest pain, headache and red facial flushing. Temporarily stopped treatment. Benadryl and additonal steroids given to counteract the effects. Was able to be rechallenged with Taxotere once I was feeling better and completed the treatment successfully. Had no reaction cycle 1 but can occur in cycle 2. No problems with Cytoxan. See oncologist tomorrow to discuss Neulasta alternative due to the extreme pain and side effects that kicked in after a few hours of receiving the injection. I'm sure oncologist will also revise pretreatment drugs prior to cycle 3. Wishing you much positive energy on your road to health and wellness. May we all find NED...No Evidence of Disease... ------------- DX 8/9/10 Stage 1 Grade 3 1.8 cm, lymph node negative, age 58, 4 cycles chemo every 3 weeks starting 9/20/10 cytoxon and taxotere, radiation will follow,no family history or lump |
Posted By: TNBC_in_NS
Date Posted: Oct 13 2010 at 11:31am
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Hi Fran:
I had the same chemo as you are getting with 16 rounds of radiation! I was also 58 years old but Stage II, Grade 3, 2.5 cm/lymph neg. and no known history. I am waiting for BRCA 1 & 2 results (six months.)
It would be interesting to know more about your lifestyle and what you believe caused your cancer.
If you would like to share with me privately, my email is mailto:helenthibeault@hotmail.com - helenthibeault@hotmail.com
You are in New Jersey and I am in Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada... would be interesting to share lifestyles...Blessings to you as you journey on...Helen in NS ------------- Diag@57TNBC04/092.5cm Lquad 05/09 TCx4Radsx30CT03/01/10 FU03/31/10ClearBRCA- 01/2011 RTNBC BMX 06/14/2011~2013 clear |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 13 2010 at 12:12pm
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Helen,
Doctors nor I really know what causes TNBC. My focus is on survivorship and power of positive thinking. Prefer not looking back but moving forward. Prior to all this I had changed my diet. I was in good health prior to diagnosis and wanted to stay that way. Met with Nutritionist. Organics, Green Tea with Antioxidants and Matcha, Raw Wild Honey (no sugar) Wild Caught Fish (no meats, pork or poultry), whole grains and nuts and avoid all additives and preservatives. What foods you eat in combo and when increases your energy. Spiritual direction, chiropractic care, reflexology have also been incoprated into my holistic approach to health and wellness to compliment my chemotherapy.
Fortunately I do not have BRCA 1/2. Test taken but negative for the gene. Hope you have the same response. My email is mailto:fran@chrisautobody.net - fran@chrisautobody.net Sending positive energy and blessings.
Please stay in touch. ------------- DX 8/9/10 Stage 1 Grade 3 1.8 cm, lymph node negative, age 58, 4 cycles chemo every 3 weeks starting 9/20/10 cytoxon and taxotere, radiation will follow,no family history or lump |
Posted By: Fran325i
Date Posted: Oct 13 2010 at 12:24pm
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Helen,
Is it ok to ask if new lump was found in the same breast? Did you have a lumpectomy originally?
My prayers are with you and hope good news will follow after the 21st and BRCA results. Did you make any lifestyle changes before or after DX in 09? My personal email is in my earlier response if you prefer to communicate more privately. Have put a bucket list together and trip to Nova Scotia is on my list. Wishing you peace and wellness. Very thankful we have each other to share our journey. ------------- DX 8/9/10 Stage 1 Grade 3 1.8 cm, lymph node negative, age 58, 4 cycles chemo every 3 weeks starting 9/20/10 cytoxon and taxotere, radiation will follow,no family history or lump |
Posted By: trip2
Date Posted: Oct 13 2010 at 6:15pm
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Dose dense,
http://www.cancer.gov/newscenter/pressreleases/dosedense - http://www.cancer.gov/newscenter/pressreleases/dosedense ------------- Stage 2 2003 Stage 1 2007 BRCA 1+ |
Posted By: Carol (Tenn)
Date Posted: Oct 13 2010 at 6:44pm
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Pam,
Thanks for that link.
Carol ------------- St 2 Gr 3, A/C/T, DD Radiation x35 Rec chest wall 07/09 Radiation x28 NED 10/24/11 NED 10/5/12 NED 03/15/13 |
Posted By: JBBest
Date Posted: Nov 21 2010 at 8:46pm
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Is anyone participating in a clinical trial with weekly AC? I have had 3 "A" treatments....taking daily oral Cytoxan. This was to go for 15 weeks......now it has changed to every other week AC thru my port for 4 more treatments....and then 12 weekly "T" treatments....other than minor nausea and being tired, no problems with chemo. With the stronger doses of "AC" every other week, what should I expect? ------------- DX IDC 8/10; age 56; stage I; gd 3; Lumpectomy & SNB 9/10; 1.2 cm; 1/2 nodes isolated tumors; clear margins. Trial with mod sch ACT. AC every 2 wks X 6. T weekly X12 after. started 1 Nov 2010. |
Posted By: SagePatientAdvocates
Date Posted: Nov 21 2010 at 9:20pm
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Hi JBBest, My daughter had two months of AC and then 2 months of TAXOL.. she lost all of her hair on the AC and was very fatigued and nauseous at times.. here are some things (please see macmillan link below) folks have experienced...and everyone is different The good thing is that it can be very effective, at times, with TNBC. My daughter is a six year survivor. There are also cardio-toxicity issues so please make sure the docs check out your heart. Ask them about a MUGA scan if you haven't had one. good luck to you!!! Please try to find the beauty in each day...This will pass but it may be a rough ride..It was for my daughter...even at the age of 36, when she was diagnosed... all the best, Steve http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/Cancertreatment/Treatmenttypes/Chemotherapy/Combinationregimen/AC.aspx - http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/Cancertreatment/Treatmenttypes/Chemotherapy/Combinationregimen/AC.aspx
------------- I am a BRCA1+ grandson, son and father of women affected by breast/oc-my daughter inherited mutation from me, and at 36, was dx 2004 TNBC I am a volunteer patient advocate with SAGE Patient Advocates |
Posted By: CiGi
Date Posted: Nov 22 2010 at 3:05pm
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Welcome Joy,
Just read your thread, I had the same issue with the sloshing fluid in the breast from the lumpectomy. I was able to hear it when I walked fast. It will go away. Mine took 3 months after surgery. But shortly after it went away, my hand swelled from lymphedema and I still have the swelling. I went through PT and it has gotten better but not gone. I finished chemo at the end of Sept. The worst of the chemo for me was the constipation. I did have a bout of really bad heartburn, and minor issues with mouth sores. It was not that bad and time flew by. I worked the whole time, took off the day of treatment and worked from home the day after. Just started radiation today, not bad so far. Good luck with your treatment. You're at the right place on this site. Our TNBC family is the best.
Carol (CiGi) ------------- Age 40, 4/28/10 lumpectomy (3 cm) TNBC Grade 3 Stage 2 0/3 nodes, TAC 6x 3 week cycles start 6/15 finish 9/27, 33 rounds rads 11/22. BRCA1 & 2 neg. Lymphedema rt hand 8/14. Joint pain Dec 2010. |
Posted By: JBBest
Date Posted: Nov 23 2010 at 9:26am
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Thanks Steve for the link and the info......big help. Yes, I did have the MUGA before I started the chemo. My schedule was every week, but they have changed it to every other week now....have 4 more of the AC treatments to go; then the T.....yes hair is now coming out.
Everyday os a good day, because I am blessed with those around me. Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving. ------------- DX IDC 8/10; age 56; stage I; gd 3; Lumpectomy & SNB 9/10; 1.2 cm; 1/2 nodes isolated tumors; clear margins. Trial with mod sch ACT. AC every 2 wks X 6. T weekly X12 after. started 1 Nov 2010. |