UPDATE: 2nd Opinion, Different Staging, Different Treatment Recs

I posted previously because I was confused and skeptical by the staging and treatment plan given by my original oncologist.

Original Post

Here's an update after my initial 2nd opinion consultation at highly reputable women's cancer center.

My pathology shows:

• Endometrioid adenocarcinoma
• Tumor size 1.7 cm
• Superficial myometrial invasion: 0.2 cm into a 1.4 cm myometrium
• No lymphovascular invasion
• Cervix, ovaries, tubes, margins, washings and peritoneal biopsies negative
• Left sentinel lymph node had a 0.4 mm micrometastasis
• Pathology listed pT1a pN1mi
• MMR proteins all intact / pMMR

My original oncologist referred to this as Stage IA, grade 1 and indicated that the microscopic lymph-node finding did not change the stage. Her PA actually said "it doesn't count" - I wrote it in my notebook as she said it. I knew they were overly optimistic about it and she kept saying "maybe just a little radiation is needed."

I went to my second opinion yesterday and the initial feedback is the 0.4 mm is lymph-node micrometastasis is a red flag rather than isolated tumor cells. So they staged as Stage IIIC1, grade 1 and said at this time they would recommend chemo but they are looking further. My case will go to their board next Friday, where the pathology, staging and treatment options will be reviewed by the full team.

I already knew this was the case in my gut but it was still really difficult to hear. I was also a little shocked at the discrepancies between the two and how confident my original oncologist was - so much so that she had already reached out and requested scheduling for radiation.

Here are my questions. Bear with me...I am a planner and a Virgo (haha). I need facts so I can feel in control and begin a to see a plan and path forward.

• I could REALLY REALLY use some insights from anyone who has had similar pathology or path ahead. Anything you can share would be appreciated.
• Long term prognosis - I have no idea what I am looking at here.
• What treatment plan did you receive? What was the timeline?
• I'm 2weeks post op - how quickly should things move forward from here?
• What was your response to treatment? Did your life go on pause?
• I do not live close to my 2nd opinion but feel it is the very best treatment and guidance moving forward. I could make it work. How would any of you weigh treatment convenience versus expert care?
• Radiation expertise - it was stressed to me a few times the importance of the best radiation oncologist. Any insights?
• POLE and P53 - I have requested this and feel like I am getting brushed off. 2nd opinion said they would run but seemed like an after thought. Confused about this because it seems like results would affect treatment.
• Ok last wacky question, I have an amazing network of female friends. One suggested a supplemental integrated health doctor. Not as a replacement but as a supplement. Has anyone gone this path?

Sorry, I am sure y'all field these deer in headlights posts all the time so thank you so much in advance.