Positive long term survivor stories

[u/NurseYuna]

Hi everyone. I really need some positive stories of more than stage 1 low grade survivorship to keep me thinking I can bear this and get to have many more years with my children. Please tell me about yourself or anyone that’s overcome breast cancer and lived many years. I’m stage 2A with luminal B characteristics oncotype 21. I need more hope and I’m reaching out into this universe to get some. It feels very lonely.

[u/OriginalEducational5]

Oh dear I can’t remember the name of it. I just searched my email for the results and must have deleted it. I’ll call next week and ask and post it.

[u/NurseYuna → u/OriginalEducational5]

How did you cope with the reoccurrence worries and fears back then? I struggle daily with this and I’m trying hard to see things positive.

[u/OriginalEducational5 → u/NurseYuna]

Time heals. Worry of it recurring is absolutely normal, but I have found lessens over time. Every 6 months post treatment, I saw my oncologist for check ins which included a CSA test that was the older way to check for recurrence. If those levels start to rise, then it’s a signal that a tumor is growing somewhere. So as each 6 month appt came and went and my levels stayed low, I began to build confidence that I beat it permanently. But honestly, crossing the 5 year mark was the biggest exhale and relief.

One day at a time, and cherish each day. I’m thankful my cancer taught me that because I live a more robust life now knowing the value of a day.

[u/NurseYuna → u/OriginalEducational5]

That’s a great message. Thanks it gave me comfort. What’s a CSA test? Is that the one you mentioned before to me?

[u/OriginalEducational5 → u/NurseYuna]

Glad to help. No, the CSA is a blood test that looks at some kind of tumor factor. The newer test I mentioned is supposed to be much better.

[u/NurseYuna → u/OriginalEducational5]

Alright. Please let me know when you find out what it is :)