Fear of radiation after lumpectomy

I chose not to because the risks (my tumor bed was directly above my heart) were not worth the reward. I understand why people chose to do it but it really needs to be based on individuals tumors, age etc. It should not be a one size fits all treatment plan. Radiation is cumulative, and once you get it you can't get it again. I'd rather save that "ace in the hole" for another time.

I am astonished that so many women on this board do not want to follow doctor's orders. Radiation for me was no big deal. You just have to show up and lie still. Good luck either way.

Are you 65 or older? I’m 65

Are you 65 or older? I’m 65

Mine was a 1.3 cm tumor, clear margins, super high positive ER/PR and HER2 negative, no lymph nodes. I chose only lumpectomy and breast reduction but no to radiation, chemo, and hormone therapy. I also declined the Oncotype test. I had my first mammogram 6months post op and all was well and good, next one in a year! Been in a good mood ever since. It was like a giant decompression mode since when she said "oh you're all done see ya next year"! I view my breast cancer as in my rear view mirror now. Could it recur? sure, but should I worry about it, I don't' think so nor will I.

I had lumpectomy then 15 radiation treatments then anti estrogen pills all since last Year November. Now in July I have chronic Myeloid Leukemia. I wonder if the radiation had anything to do with it? I am now taking Gleevec , a chemo pill with some side affects

I totally agree with you. They lump everyone in the same category regardless of Onco scores K167 scores clear margins no lymph node involvement etc. cancer is a Multi billion $ business and this is their standard of care and they make no exceptions... It is very scary to be facing radiation if you have low numbers. I’m sitting on the fence and must make a decision by Friday . I am full of anxiety about it. I have done my research and there are a lot of natural holistic antitumor properties that we can take instead of the anti-estrogen meds which give you a horrible quality of life. Good luck to you and your decision as I know how hard it is.

I totally agree with you. They lump everyone in the same category regardless of Onco scores K167 scores clear margins no lymph node involvement etc. cancer is a Multi billion $ business and this is their standard of care and they make no exceptions... It is very scary to be facing radiation if you have low numbers. I’m sitting on the fence and must make a decision by Friday . I am full of anxiety about it. I have done my research and there are a lot of natural holistic antitumor properties that we can take instead of the anti-estrogen meds which give you a horrible quality of life. Good luck to you and your decision as I know how hard it is.