Can you say “no” to chemo?
it’s been a whirlwind since I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After the lumpectomy they said it was stage 2a with 2 lymph nodes affected, which they removed. I had a cat scan afterwards with a slightly suspicious node nearby. I had been told that I would have radiation for 4 weeks followed by hormone blockers for 5 years . While meeting with the radiologist he said it would probably be 6 weeks of radiation and I might need some chemo therapy. My question is has anyone said no to chemo? That really scares me.
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I think you can say no to any and all of it if you want to, but it's just a matter of what's the best course. You might want to get a second and even third opinion. Also read here about other people's experiences, and then make a decision you can live with, if anything happens down the road. I'm really sorry about your situation, and I'm glad you found this site. Just read a lot and weigh things a lot, and listen to your gut. There is a lot of information and help here for sure. Wishing you lots of luck!
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You can say no to anything you want! You are the boss, not the doctors. That being said, threetree’s comment is spot on. Really understand your situation and risks going forward and make decisions based on facts not fear. Take care
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Hi @happy_cat -
Has anyone mentioned having an ONCOTYPE test done?
My MO suggested chemo and I was terrified of it. I decided to let the ONCOTYPE help me decide. It came back with a high chance of recurrence without chemo, so I ended up doing the chemo. I did go into it emotionally kicking and screaming, but I got through it.
All treatments are your decision, but you just have to understand the potential outcomes of the decisions you make.
Good luck with your decisions.
Take care.
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Apparently the oncotype will determine whether or not she’ll recommend chemo. Thank you all for your comments.
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It is your body and you are the decision-maker, so yes, you can say no to anything you don’t want. Research, and get second and third opinions from different practitioners. Also please read ‘Knockout’ by Suzanne Somers.
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Yes you can say NO!
I have been struggling with which type of surgery to have. I actually told the surgeon a couple of weeks ago that I did not want surgery, and she said that she will respect my choice. The next day my oncologist called me in to talk about it. After talking to so many friends, family, nurses, etc. I decided to get a second opinion. The doctor actually showed me my charts and broke it down to explain why surgery is important. It was really helpful ( I am still scared and lost) but it was nice seeing everything and I have a better understanding of my body and why it is needed.
I won't sugar coat it, chemo is difficult to go through. I started painting and going to parks on my good days, you learn to really appreciate the good days. Chemo isn't forever, my doctor says it is a marathon that I didn't sign up for but I have to finish the race.
I would recommend getting a second opinion or have your doctor show you your MRI and other charts and explain it.
All the best my sister! ❤️
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