I think this is a two-sided issue. On the one hand, it's WONDERFUL that I don't need to be on drugs like arimidex or tamoxifen... with all their side effects and everything. On the other hand, it SUCKS that I don't have something that's proven to reduce the probability of recurrence.
For me, I had a complete pathological response with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, so added drug therapy would not drastically reduce my chances of recurrence. In fact, my chances of recurrence are estimated at about 5% because I had that complete pathological response. So... that's quite good. So, at the end of the day, I'm in the grateful camp, actually. Also, chemo tossed me into menopause, and because I had triple negative breast cancer, I was able to start hormone replacement therapy...
There are some clinical trials going on looking at longer term drug therapy to cut down on the chances of recurrence.
This XXX is scary - no doubt.
I am trying to keep my attitude positive... and to keep my mind on LIVING rather than worrying!
Good luck. I wish you a peaceful afternoon.
