Next month, I mark 43 years since I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Posted by rjp27 @rjp27, Jul 20, 2025

Next month, I mark 43 years since I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I am very thankful for all the things I’ve experienced during these bonus years. Newly diagnosed people have often crossed my path, and I have had the privilege of encouraging them with not only my longevity but also quality of life. Any other longterm survivors out there?

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Profile picture for susansh @susansh

I am 25 years post diagnosis of Stage 3B Pleomorphic Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (PILC).
Last October I was rediagnosed as Stage 4 w/mets to my spine and pelvis. The lesions had been there for at least two years and were initially diagnosed as "degenerative"..."You're getting old".
I do not have pain (no meds needed). I have normal blood work, no cancer symptoms.
Stay positive and do not waste today worrying about tomorrow or yesterday. Feed your body not your cancer. Exercise, hydrate and get good sleep. These all matter!
You can do this!!!

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@susansh Great that you had 25 good years!
You said normal blood work. Did you have Signatera blood tests?

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I am 25 years post diagnosis of Stage 3B Pleomorphic Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (PILC).
Last October I was rediagnosed as Stage 4 w/mets to my spine and pelvis. The lesions had been there for at least two years and were initially diagnosed as "degenerative"..."You're getting old".
I do not have pain (no meds needed). I have normal blood work, no cancer symptoms.
Stay positive and do not waste today worrying about tomorrow or yesterday. Feed your body not your cancer. Exercise, hydrate and get good sleep. These all matter!
You can do this!!!

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May I ask what type of BC you had?

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May I inquire as to your original diagnosis?

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So pleased to hear of your long stretch of survivorship. I was at 33 years last summer when I was diagnosed with a recurrence. This time I elected a mastectomy of my right breast with follow up of letrozole and zometa infusion. I'm coming up on a mammogram for the left breast and am extremely nervous. My insurance provides an oncology social worker who has been a great support through all the twists and turns this time around.

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Boy did I need to hear this today. I’m headed into a full on depression lately. It is a hard rd to travel and easy to get discouraged. Thank you!

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Profile picture for mrszig @mrszig

God bless you! Im still waiting to get the all clear. I don’t know why my Dr. never tells me that I’m in the clear. I still get a mammogram every 6 months? I’m never going to be able to move on at this rate.

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Personally, I’d be thankful to be watched this carefully at this point. Every journey is different, but you don’t want to rush - sounds like you are in good hands.

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Profile picture for anatomary @anatomary

I'm in Michigan; where are you? You never know....

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I’m in California. It’s has been a cool summer so far😀

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God bless you! Im still waiting to get the all clear. I don’t know why my Dr. never tells me that I’m in the clear. I still get a mammogram every 6 months? I’m never going to be able to move on at this rate.

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Wow! I am very happy to hear of your story! I am newly dx and am always worry. Thanks for your story which gives hope to all of us.

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