March 14 - Yesterday I finally got the call that I was waiting for. It was not the news I was hoping to hear. Turns out that my Estrogen Receptor (ER), Progesterone Receptor (PR) and growth-promoting protein (HER2) all came back negative. About 10-20% of breast cancers test negative for both hormone receptors and HER2 in the lab, which means they are triple-negative. Since hormones are not supporting its growth, the cancer is unlikely to respond to hormonal therapies.
In addition, triple-negative breast cancer is more likely to spread beyond the breast and more likely to recur (come back) after treatment. These risks appear to be greatest in the first few years after treatment. This was taken from my research at breastcancer.org, a very trustworthy site that was recommended to me.
With that being said, triple-negative breast cancer can be treated with both chemotherapy and radiation. There are new advances in treatment and research for triple-negative breast cancer. I had to take a day to process this news, but am moving forward with a positive attitude and belief that my treatments will work.
I also got the results of the PET scan and Breast MRI. The PET scan did not show any other signs of cancer. This news was a huge relief. The Breast MRI, on the other hand, showed a prominent 1 cm area of concern on the right side that needs further evaluation. Therefore, I am scheduled for a mammogram & ultrasound on the right side Monday. Also, I will meet with the medical oncologist, Dr. Margaret Coplin, to find out treatment options. After that I will get my chest x-ray, blood work and EKG with hopes to move forward and get this process started.
Thanks to everyone who has been supportive, the phone calls, cards and especially the prayers.
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