My last mammogram 3 years ago was clear. I received a letter back from my lastest mammogram and it requires additional information and have to go to the triple assessment specialist breast clinic. I'm worried sick
Hi - in the same boat. Though this is my first mammogram. I’m imagining the worst, which isn’t like me. I have a week until my breast clinic appointment too so a lot of time to sweat on it.
First of all, out of the number of people called to the breast clinic, 4 out of 5 people recalled are ok. They're not saying you have cancer, they just want to check to make absolutely sure there are no problems. I was recalled and I had cancer. I was seen at the breast clinic on September 1st and on September 25th I had day surgery to remove the lump they found. That was followed by a short course of radiotherapy just before Christmas, which meant I got out of cooking Christmas lunch last year! I know you're worried. I was too. It's not definite that they'll find something but, if they do, it can hopefully be dealt with quickly and fairly simply. Good luck. I hope all goes well. Gill xx
More people are recalled after their first mammogram than any other. This is because there are no previous images to compare the findings to.
I was recalled and was terrified because I had previously lost my mum to secondary breast cancer. Fortunately, I was ok. I was however, diagnosed with primary breast cancer some years later and had a lumpectomy. Within 6 months, I found a lump in my other breast, which was pre-cancerous and within the year from my initial surgery, I was diagnosed with a second primary in my original breast. I had a double mastectomy for this bout. That was all 16 years ago and I still lead a bust and fulfilling life.
I guess what I'm saying is that, I've seen the outcome from both sides and both are "doable". No amount of worrying will change the outcome, but the whole purpose of routine mammograms is to catch cancer early. I hope that all turns out well for Worried-mama and Dartington. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.
