What helped you make treatment decisions following DCIS lumpectomy?

The recurrence risk with and without endocrine therapy was my biggest determining factor, for me the difference was important. Was it always easy, no. Was it worth the years I gained, absolutely. I have no idea what would have happened if I refused some of my treatments, but I don’t regret any of it. You have a best case scenario, if that’s even possible in cancer. Low grade cancer caught while it was still in situ. I think that should give you some peace of mind

I appreciate hearing about what helped you make your decision. That was helpful. Thanks

@dposie what did you decide about treatments? Are you going to give hormone therapy a try?

I had a lumpectomy for Stage 2B cancer, radiation and was put on a Hormone Suppressant called Arimadex. One of the side effects was stroke. I had 2 mini strokes and quit taking it. That was 10 years ago, and I have been fine.....

@volkswagon how long were you on Arimidex, prior to your mini strokes? I didn’t know about this possible side effect.

I was on Arimidex for 10-12 months before my 2nd mini stroke. Arimidex and Tamoxifen both have strokes as a side effect. I was told it is not a common one but my drs were not surprised by mine.

I had a lumpectomy 2 years ago for DCIS INSITU. The doctor wanted to put me on Tamoxifen but I was afraid of the side effects. I didn’t need radiation treatment. I inquired about Raloxifene (Evista) and the doctor agreed. So far so good, still praying everything will go well.

I did not know this either, and I took one for years, then switched and took the other for even more years. Less scary after the fact, I have heard of a lot of side effect mostly muscular and joint, but I had never heard this. Do you have any long lasting effects from those mini strokes?

I am glad you are doing well. Even though it was caught really early on, there is still risk reduction for more cancer,

No, I thankfully do not have any lasting effects from those mini strokes.