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Hello all! I had breast cancer with a double mastectomy. I had the surgery in April of 2024. Now it’s been two years of pure hell.

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Utah

As of one month ago I stopped my hormone therapy. I was taking Letrozole and my life has been horrible. I’m willing to take the 4% chance of the cancer returning. I’m 72. Your thoughts??????

April 20
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Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

It’s been 2 years for me too and I decided I didn’t want to take those pills as quality of life was more important for me

May 7
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member I'm with you on those blockers. Life at your age is much more important than taking those pills. Ask for Natera testing instead, that's what I have every three month. Good Luck! God Bless!

April 20
A MyBCTeam Member

Hi Sue! Good to see you again. Yes, I spoke to my oncologist and told her that I was going to quit. She did suggest the other meds and I told her I did extensive research on them and they all had the same side effects of Letrozole. I was at my breaking point. I had IDC with no chemo or radiation. It was Stage 1 Class 1. Quality of life is more important to me than quantity. We both decided to go ahead and stop the Letrozole until June when the new test will be available that determines if and when if I was to have a recurrence. I actually feel alive right now!! Not sure what AMISS is.

April 20
MyBCTeam

What are your thoughts on stopping Letrozole hormone therapy after a double mastectomy?

It sounds like you've been through an incredibly difficult time, and your feelings are completely valid. Letrozole can cause challenging side effects that significantly impact quality of life, including:

- Hot flashes
- Joint and bone Show Full Answer

What are your thoughts on stopping Letrozole hormone therapy after a double mastectomy?

It sounds like you've been through an incredibly difficult time, and your feelings are completely valid. Letrozole can cause challenging side effects that significantly impact quality of life, including:

- Hot flashes
- Joint and bone pain
- Fatigue
- Sleep problems
- Mood changes
- Osteoporosis

Many people struggle with these effects, and quality of life matters enormously, especially when weighing treatment decisions at any age. That said, it's important to have an open conversation with your oncologist before making this decision final. They can help you understand:

- Your personal recurrence risk based on your specific cancer type and characteristics
- Whether the risk is actually 4% for your situation (it varies by individual factors)
- Alternative hormone therapy options that might have fewer side effects
- Whether a lower dose of Letrozole could help

Some people with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer face higher recurrence risks beyond 10 years, so understanding your specific situation is crucial. A MyBCTeam member shared similar feelings about stopping treatment, expressing relief after completing five years of hormone therapy. Your well-being and quality of life are important considerations in any treatment decision.

Please discuss this with your cancer care team so you can make an informed choice that feels right for you, considering both your health and happiness.

April 20
A MyBCTeam Member

Good for you Pepper!!💜

May 8

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