Good News Today!

We have been waiting for the final pathology test which came in today.  Earlier this week, we met with the oncologist and found out that my cancer has officially been staged as “Stage 1”.   I have at least a  92% of the cancer not coming back within 10 years if we use hormone therapy only.   The Oncotype test that we had hoped would be back in time for our oncology appointment provides us with important information about whether or not my cancer is likely to recur and if it is likely to benefit from chemotherapy.  The scores will fall within 3 “bands” -  Low Risk – which means that chemo is not likely to make a difference so would not be recommended;  High Risk-  the likelihood of the cancer reoccurring outweighs the risks associated with chemo; or Intermediate Risk-  the maybe-maybe not range.  After meeting with the oncologist, we were bracing for the test to show an Intermediate Risk which would mean that we would be faced with a difficult decision.  The oncologist described this range as ”treating many to save a few”.   

My doctor called this afternoon, almost giddy, to report that my oncotype test fell in the “Low Risk” category so we could officially take the discussion of chemotherapy off the table!   This comes as a huge relief on so many levels.  Since meeting with the doctor earlier this week, I have been praying for clarity and that the path that He would have me take would be laid before us.  God is so good!   

Tomorrow I will begin taking Tamoxifen, which is a drug commonly used to treat breast cancer and to decrease the chance of breast cancer coming back.  It’s a pill-a-day for at least 5 years.   It does have side effects, but they pale in comparison to those from chemotherapy.   So with this news, it looks like the worst is behind us and that we will be able to move forward from here into my new life as a "cancer survivor". 

I thank God for each of you and for all of the love, support and prayers that you have so generously given to me and my family!  I am truly blessed!