I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in my left breast on May 2, 2011. Prior to my work-up for surgery I was Stage 1. My breast surgeon informed me I would need a lumpectomy, sentinel node biopsy, and six weeks of radiation. My first breast surgery was performed on 7.12.2011. The pathology came back - Stage 2a - 31 lymph nodes lit up, but only one was confirmed for cancer. The next morning she told me I would also need chemotherapy. At my follow-up appointment she told me she could remove more tissue and see if she could get clear margins or I could decide on prophylactic bilateral mastectomy and immediate breasts reconstruction with tissue expanders. I chose the mastectomy because cancer scared me more than losing my breasts. I consulted with Dr. Allen Gabriel who would perform the breast reconstruction. This surgery occurred on 8.31.2011. An Oncotype Test was performed and a Radiation Oncologist was consulted. My Oncotype Test result was 13 meaning chemotherapy would not benefit me; I have a very low probability of breast cancer recurrence. The Radiation Oncologist told me no need for radiation because my breasts were removed and my chest wall is healthy. On 12.7.2011 the tissue expanders were replaced by breast implants. Cancer-free since 8.31.2011!! My breast reconstruction was complete on March 14, 2013.
LINDA MOOREBATTLE GROUND, WA
