Hello and thanks for your post

I'm sorry to read about your mum and your recent breast cancer diagnosis. It sounds like you are going through a lot right now.

I can't be completely sure and you would need your breast care team to confirm this for you. But during surgery, the doctor tries to find the sentinel lymph node which is the first lymph node that the cancer would have the ability to spread to. They use a special technique involving a dye or radioactive substance to locate this node. However, it seems that they didn't get a clear signal ( answer) from this technique.

Because they didn't get a strong signal they remove multiple lymph nodes to make sure they are checked thoroughly to see if the cancer has spread there. The results from these lymph nodes will help determine the stage of your cancer and will help plan further treatment as needed.

It's understandable to feel scared and overwhelmed especially with having a young family. Your breast care team are there to support you. Do speak to your breast care nurse and do ask them any questions and share any concerns you have. They will want to make sure that you have the information and support you need during this challenging time.

The charity Breast Cancer Now have a support network on their forum called younger women together where you can talk to other women going through similar things.

I hope this is of some help. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Celene

Thank you Celene. I'll talk to the nurses and see what they think at my 1 week appointment.