['lizbeth]

Maine,

Happy that you have a plan. Sounds like you are set up for "Standard of Care" treatment except for the Tamoxifen seems a little outside the box. It does seem the MO is very thorough which is a good thing.

I understand about the other breast. I'm currently not very found of mine because I have the occasional breast pain that makes me nervous. Even though I'm over 5 years out I'm trying to lose weight and then get the other breast reduced and lifted and finish my reconstruction.

I'm a big fan of 2nd opinions too. I know you are way up in beautiful Maine and cancer centers are not common. But since your MO is more attached to your other breast than you are, a different opinion might be helpful.

You can also do small things to lower risk on your own. Eat plenty of fruits & vegetables, aerobic exercise (even during treatment) and meditation have shown a decrease in recurrence rates. Women who have a support group have also had lower recurrence rates.

Statistically the chances of the cancer recurring are low. But we see from this board the ladies who have experienced progression. Luckily they (Denise, Darita, and others) are here and willing to share their experience.

The radiation and chemo are going to be challenging. But you can do it. If you have questions there seems to be someone on the board who has experienced something similar.

Keep us posted on your experience.

Wishing you good health