Recurrence after 12 years

[Hopeful]

I do not know the odds for this but logic "says" that I would be at greater risk of breast cancer just because I have had breast cancer

Have a look at this article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/251612.php

The case is made for genomic instability preceeding the appearance of either DCIS or IDC. I think this is where your logic may come in. I do suspect that the "instabilities" may be periodic, rather than constant, based on epigenetics: http://www.news-medical.net/news/201...diagnosed.aspx That would explain why cancer reappears after many years of ned.

Hopeful

[Jean]

JayKay,
Sorry to read your post...I think all of us early stagers who are NED are realistic that the situation can change on a dime for us.
The earlier cancer is detected and the earlier treatment begins, the better the chance. You have been diligent in your care for the past 12 yrs. As you already know the current treatments for early stage has changed the stats.

I understand how you feel to hear the "c" word...Dr. Slamon told me that and the little voice in my head kept saying..."did I hear that right?"

Thinking of you and sending you healing energy.
Jean

[newgg]

JayKay, from another "lurker" and your note has brought me out. Have been NED for 8 years. Stage 2b, triple pos.( er/pr/her2+++) with SNB finding a couple of pos. nodes. Did the bilat surgery, chemo, rads and Herceptin. Arimidex for 7 years. As many have already shared with you it is all doable and we are "TOB" so there !! Also found this site doing research and love the info and support from all these Warriors. What a wonderful group !! From my lurking days.....this group will never know how much support they have been and continue to be to us lurkers. Thanks all !!!

[bria]

Newgg, you're living my worst nightmare. I'm afraid the same will happen to me in the future if not sooner. I have CEA that is rising steadily and they can't seem to find a reason why. Best of luck to you. Prayers too.

[jaykay]

Bria - please don't don't think that! Everyone is different. Now I'm just angry and ready to get on with it.

I honestly was reluctant to come "out of the closet" because it wasn't good news but I needed the support of this truly exceptional group

Best wishes to you, too

Janis

[suzan w]

JayKay, sorry to read your news. As an 'early stager' who did hear the "c" word from my oncologist...your post affirms the fears that are always in the back of my mind! Although I did opt for a bilateral mastectomy back in 2005...and my tumor markers have always been low...the worry never goes away. I worry because I DONT have breasts to mammo, or BSE...and I have had so many xrays and scans...
You will kick this setback in the butt, grrrrr!!!!!

[tricia keegan]

Its all been said, so will just send ((((hugs))))!

[sarah]

I've had a recurrence and I agree, it's a terrible shock but as the others have stated, there are so many treatments available and have been successful. Herceptin is easy - I did it for 6 years. You didn't mention radiation but I suppose you've had it, if not and this is in the same breast (or not), you will have it. I'm now 8 years out from my recurrence.
The shock will wear off and once you start on your treatment, you'll feel more in control and better.
hugs and love
sarah