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Did you go over 20 years NED and then got diagnosed again?

I'm an oldie here. I was 1st diagnosed in September 2003 at age 36 with IDC. I had a right breast lumpectomy because of my age and according to my oncologist surgeon back in NJ; it was followed by 4 chemos and 33 rads.

From 2004 to 2024, I went thru several biopsies, including a 2010 left breast lumpectomy for atypical hyperplasia.

Fast forward to June 2025, and now living in FL, I was diagnosed with BC; this time DCIS and yet again in my right breast.

This time I called the shots and went for a double mastectomy with DIEP flap reconstruction. I am glad I did the double mastectomy because the tissue report demonstrated all kinds of hyperplasia on both breasts including atypical.

Anyone else getting diagnosed again after two decades NED?

Comments

  • Hi @naughtybynature ,

    We're so sorry you're facing breast cancer again after more than 20 years NED. That must have been incredibly unexpected, especially after such a long time.

    While it's not common, it's also not uncommon… we do have members who've experienced a new breast cancer diagnosis many years after their first, so I hope they'll stop by to share their experiences with you. I'm glad you found us again, though I'm sorry you needed to.

    If you're looking for additional support, you might also consider joining one of our Going Through Treatment Virtual Support Groups. Many members find it helpful to connect in real time with others who understand what it's like to navigate treatment and all the emotions that come with it. You can learn more here: https://www.breastcancer.org/community/virtual-support-groups

    We're so glad you're here, and we're here to support you!
    Sending you hugs,
    Your Mods

  • Hi,

    I can't speak to being diagnosed again, but just wanted to say glad you caught it early and are on the road to recovery.

  • Hi @naughtybynature -

    Well….just about….

    I was first dxd in December of 2003, ILC and DCIS right breast, mx and Tram Flap and reduction.

    I was then dxd again in October 2022, so almost 19 years later. This time IDC left breast and had a Lat Flap.

    In my case, they decided it was a 'new' cancer especially since it was a different type. I guess my body is just really 'good' at growing bc. For me, I was fortunate enough over those many years to not need any biopsies and had no false positives on my breast MRIs.

    It really does hit you in the gut doesn't it? The good news is the 2nd time I think you know so much more, so you don't have the learning curve that you did the 1st time. It sounds like you used your knowledge to get the treatment you wanted, so good for you!

    I hope you and I have done this journey enough now!

    Take Care.

  • @moderators Thank you for caring.

    @beach2beach Thank you for stopping by and wishing well.

    @mandy23 Wow, you are from my time, 2003. I can't believe you too suffered a new BC finding in 2022. I am so sorry. If you ever want to talk, let me know. I apologize for being so short, I am having a major brain fart.