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Posted 11/14/2007 8:52 PM (GMT 0)
I haven't been on the site a lot in the last couple of years, but I do always stop by to see how everyone is doing.

Today, I can use your help.

I was diagnosed last week with a recurrence. I can't believe that I had to go in again with something I found on my own with all the PETs, CTs, MRIs, and Mammos I have had in the last 4 years.

I had thyroid cancer last year and that was easily taken care of. But this sucks!

So, now I am facing a mastectomy and reconstruction. My latest PET showed a small spot in the breast and a lymph node in my neck (which I also pointed out on my own to the doctors). They aren't sure if that is breast related or thyroid related, but it will come out either way.

Can anyone give me advice on the type of recon? I was given the tram flap option and the expander/implant option with the tram flap being the surgeon's 1st choice.

Thanks for the support ladies!

Samantha

Posted 11/14/2007 9:47 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Sam! It's good to see you but not good to hear about recurrences. Advice on the reconstruction.... I would see what is going on with the recurrence first. Then I would really think about the expander/implant because a tram flap takes so much healing and is not an easy recovery. My daughter also felt lymph nodes in her neck and that took her to the onc. She was not good about mammograms and yearly check ups. She is on oral chemo and aredia once a month infusion. Her latest bone scan was good but the CT scan there was a shadow they thought could be another node they are going to check again next month or so.

Keep us updated!
Hugs MK
Posted 11/14/2007 11:10 PM (GMT 0)
well...I do not have reaccurance but am currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer.
Friday I begin chemo....I also had thyroid cancer and last week after having the ct scans they found a very small spot on the left lung and also on the neck, they are going to look at them again after chemo.

I have stopped the fills for reconstruction,,,,since I cannot have the expander taken out or the permanant implant in until a month after chemo, so I am in no big hurry to do all of that right now..in fact I was supposed to go today for 50 cc and I cancelled.

I just want to take care while doing the chemo so that I don't get sick and tierd.

good luck to you and many many prayers and thoughts your way.

gretchen
Posted 6/4/2008 4:53 AM (GMT 0)
I had breast cancer in 2003 with a mastectomy and no chemo/rad only took Arimidex for five years. Until this May almost five years to the day) I was fine, then at a regular checkup the doctor found a axillary node, did a fine needle biopsy which came back positive. Mammograms, ultrasound, MRI, Stereotactic biopsy, CAT/PET scans, Chest X-Ray all came back negative. They think the tumor is in the breast but not sure where. I to am going to have a port put in and begin Chemo. I am so scared, even though I am a Reg. Nurse. with a Bachelors in Nursing. My sister in law had Chemo and has suffered heart problems but other than that she is fine. My other friend had Chemo, went and finished her PhD and worked....she was fine. Remember, you can keep a positive mind which will helpe your healing process. Keep in mind, it isn't ceforever!!! !!!!!!!! Joyce
Posted 6/10/2008 3:51 AM (GMT 0)
Hey Sam

Firstly:  (((((((((((((Sammy))))))))))))))))

Of Course I remember you.  I'm so sorry for your present news.  I support you fully and completely.  Please keep on posting and letting us know how you're faring.  Please utilize the ladies' advice.  I'm grappling with going to doctors with every pain and problem that I think may be a sign of a recurrance and it's just got me going nuts.  That's where I'm at. 

 

I hope you can use us again like you did the first time.  If I recall, you did find us helpful.

 

Let us know what the schedule is for your treatment. and what the docs and you decide to do.

 

Take care

Posted 6/12/2008 9:24 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you!! See my post above to Tavish for an update on me!
Posted 6/16/2008 10:49 PM (GMT 0)
I am so sorry you are going through this.  I had a tram flap about 1 1/2 years after diagnosis.  I didn't want any reconstruction at first, but then I just hated to wear the prosthesis.  I don't think I would recommend doing it until after all your treatment is complete.  It is a very hard recovery and can't imagine dealing with chemo during that.   It took a good 6-9 months to be completely back to normal.  However, I do highly recommend this option, because it's your own tissue and you don't have to have it redone in 10 years, like implants.  Plus, the added benefit of a tummy tuck!  That was the best for me!

 

Keep positive and you will get through this.  We will be right by your side.

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