Met yesterday with both my surgical and medical oncologists.
Word from my surgeon: See you in 6 months.
From my medical oncologist: Do no harm.
We finally have the final pathology report and the results of the Oncotype DX test, which examines the genetics of breast cancer tumors and ranks the likelihood of cancer recurrence on a scale of 0 to 100. This governs the recommendation of what type of treatment is needed.
My score came back at 8, which is all kinds of incredible. My form of cancer is not aggressive. No chemotherapy is needed.
To help prevent what appears to be a very slim chance of recurrence, the only form of adjuvant treatment I’ll need is a daily dose of anti-estrogen. For 5 years.
Because my form of cancer is hormone-receptor positive, hormone therapy will limit estrogen’s effects in the body, which will in turn block cancer cells’ ability to hitch a ride with estrogen and spread destruction. Starting on tamoxifen soon.
Where do I see myself in 5 years? This is the only time I’ll even consider answering that vapid interview question: Not taking hormones, thank you.
SO…we’re off the hook in a big way. Mike and I are relieved and filled with gratitude.
But still not off this crazy train: Physical therapy twice a week for the next two months. Expansion sessions at the plastic surgeon’s office once a week. And we need to make a plan for exchange surgery, IUD removal, and possible hysterectomy.