Metastatic Breast Cancer

Hello I would just like to introduce myself...

I was diagnosed with breast cancer in mid July and had a mastectomy in early August. However within 2 weeks of diagnosis I had a scan that showed metastases in my bones. After surgery the tumour was revealed to be only a grade 1 and only 1 lymph node involved. The radiologist oncologist had doubts re the diagnosis of metastases so order more tests, but accepted that it was what it was and told me he would see me after 3 - 4 cycles of chemo.

I saw a medical oncologist in early September and she also wanted more tests and requested a PET Scan and a bone biopsy to confirm, what we had already accepted. Needless to say this turn of events left us frustrated, as no treatment could begin until this dr was 100% sure.... I was not keen on having a bone biopsy as it involved my spine and in a highly degraded area of bone.

Thank god the biopsy did not proceed as at the last minute the medical oncologist accepted what the PET scan showed, cancer in T11, 9th rib, hip and sacrum..... I started tamoxifen 5 days ago and will be seeing the oncologist tomorrow to discuss further treatment, eg zometa and zoladex. I believe I will not be having chemo or radiation at this stage.

I was hoping that someone could tell me if this is the normal process and if anyone else has been in a similar position. I live in an isolated rural community and the closest large town is 2 hours away and bigger hospitals a minimum of 6 hours away.

I look forward to hearing from everyone and sharing their stories...
Carmel