Did anyone else decide to not have radiation?

This past May, I was given the choice to have 20 Radiation Treatments or not as I was 70. Right on the cusp of yes or no. I chose yes, as I’m a retired teacher so used to being active, with the hope of many years ahead. I do not regret the decision at all. The treatments were actually uplifting, as the tech’s were very positive and compassionate young people. My skin reacted with a rash, and I used a few different creams for the itchiness and discomfort. It was real, for a month or so! But I’d do it again for the peace of mind I now have.

So you had whole breast radiation?
Were you given the option of partial breast radiation for five days?
I am ER PR positive and her2-.
Just wondering if your tumor characteristics are similar?
And did your radiation oncologist informed you what the stats were if you did not have radiation delivered??

My tumor was at “11:00”…that was targeted in treatments 16-20. First 15 treatments were for the entire L breast. Yes, my tumor sounds similar to yours. I felt proactive saying yes, and was diligent with cream applications. They saved my itchiness, as did loose cotton tops! 6 months after, the area looks great (just had my dermatologist appt, as I’m blonde with thin skin). She said I looked great. I credit the good creams.

I'm glad you said that about the techs--my experience as well.

I had low grade lumps in both breasts. I chose to do 18 rounds of radiation with sero AI drugs. Tried the drugs for 6 months and was crippled with arthritis immediately. within 2 weeks I could hardly walk. So I did the radiation and skipped the drugs after treatment. Went on a healthy vegan diet for a year, and have never looked back. The radiation was a piece of cake, compared to the drugs. 5 years clear. I was 69 when I was diagnosed. Piece of mind is everything afterwards. in my opinion, it is definitely the least aggressive of all treatments.

Good decision. I too am older and when offered 3 weeks instead of one, I chose 3 to further discourage the possibility of this returning when I'm even older! You are very lucky to have compassionate techs. Mine have been rushed and not concerned about my comfort. I've had to speak up or be miserable. The nurses, on the other hand, have been great. One of them pulled me aside and said, "I'm glad you are advocating for yourself and asking questions." That's every patient's right. We have to live with these decisions. Today I sat next to a lady who didn't know why she was having chem as well as radiation. ??? We should all know what's happening to us and why IMO. My Navigator is wonderful and a very strong support. May all go well with you!

Gee certainly gives me motivation.
Was your radiation treatment whole or partial?

Thank you for such encouragement!

Happy for your outcome.

What creams did you use?

I used Aquafor (they recommended) in the beginning, 3X/day; as it got itchy I switched to CeraVe Itch Relief (saved me!). Palmer’s was recommended…but not as good as CeraVe, available on Amazon. They also said they had prescription level creams, but I never asked for that. In looking back, I might have to save money (depending on your insurance plan). Stayed out of the sun and didn’t let shower water hit my chest directly.