My recurrence occurred 12 years after my initial diagnosis of stage 1 ductal breast cancer. Onco diagnostic testing with my initial dx indicted chemo was not needed, then because I had a mastectomy due to non-clear margins at lumpectomy surgery, I did not receive radiation either.. I took an aromatose inhibitor for 5 years. Had two oncologist who followed different protocols concur on the treatment I received with my initial diagnosis. So I just try not to look back as the past cannot be changed and I try to take one day at a time . I remember information I was given at my initial treatment that said survival rates rather one had a lumpectomy or mastectomy were the same.. It always bothered me that there was no annual screening test for my mastectomy site.

Everyone is different in what their treatment plan is. Initially, I was stage 1 by pathology and very bilateral mastectomy and immediate reconstruction. I also had sentinel biopsy and have 31 lymph nodes removed, but only one confirmed for cancer. I have a oncotype assay done which showed no need for chemo. I consulted with a radiation oncologist who told me no need for radiation because my chest was is healthy no signs of cancer and both breast removed. I have 13 breast surgeries total to complete my reconstruction. I'm 9 years cancer free. I believe in making sure all screening exams are done.