Hi everyone. I am DCIS positive on left breast. Had 2 lumpectomies with second one to clear additional margins that were then negative for cancer. I am also Grade 3 aggressive moving cancer cells with a 9.2 out of 10 for high rate of recurrence. Hence radiations were recommended for me.
My question and dazed state is related to type of radiation to undergo. Penn Med near my home in Chester County, PA did not even mention proton. I found it in blogs here! I then went to Penn Med in Philly which is one of the only few facilities or if not, the only facility in Philly to offer proton. But the MD there has said he doesn’t even recommend proton to billionaires, if at early stage cancer. It’s used more for later stages and has risk of rib fractures for about approx. 1 out of 100 people. There is also the insurance appeal they would need to submit to see if Aetna would cover the proton therapy for me. Out of pocket costs would be outrageously high he said between $100-120k! I have asthma and high cholesterol runs in my family genetically on both Mom and Dad’s side, and hence am concerned about impacting the heart and my lungs. Penn Philly did the breather test and CT scan to determine if my heart and lungs move out of the way. I haven’t heard back about the results but my treatments start on Wednesday. I am anxious. Not sure what to do. I’ve sort of resigned myself to traditional therapy but upon reading this blog this morning, it makes me wonder if I should pause and visit TX and NY for options. But if my insurance does not cover it then does it even matter? I would appreciate any advice, tips and suggestions please.

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