I am a 26 year breast cancer survivor with no reoccurrence. I was diagnosed the same age my Mother died of breast cancer, 47. ( I did genetic testing and do not have BRCA mutations.)
I was stage 1 ER+ with no limp node involvement. I had a lumpectomy with a very small tumor with clear margins removed. I did 30 rounds of radiation and did 8 rounds of optional chemotherapy (CMF) I joke that I did the chemotherapy so I could get a year off of work. I had very little hair loss.
I did 5 years of Tamoxifen and 5 years letrozole. Of course I had side effects from the medications and treatment but I powered through to save my life. I had 3 teenage boys ( my Mother had 3 teenagers when she died) I wanted to see my sons grow up. I did everything my oncologist told me to do regardless of the medication side effects. In the beginning the side effects are difficult but tend to ease as your body adapts. I eat a really clean diet, lots of fruits and vegetables, some meat. My suggestion is to do the Chemo if it’s an option because I believe that’s why I’m here today. Hair loss is nothing compared to life loss. My friend with BC very similar to mine didn’t and is now gone. Also take the medications, fight the side effects. Remember you are fighting to save your life. I’m in good health today at 73 with 6 grandkids.