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Waiting for news, but consumed with fear

SuperSonic8
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  1. I've recently had CT scan that showed potential mets to my lung and hilar node from my triple negative breast cancer which I battled against in 2024.
  2. I have now had a bronchoscopy and Pet CT scan but the wait to hear back is agonising and all consuming. 
  3. How do I cope with yet more waiting as suspect it'll be next week before I get confirmation and news about my prognosis and treatment plan.  
  4. I am 55 years old and it's looking unlikely I will see my 60th birthday.
  5. I really want to try to be positive but all things are leading to a poor outcome. 
  6. Can anyone offer any help or advice for the waiting. 
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    Hi SuperSonic8,  I am sorry to read about your potential spread.  I agree with you the waiting is the worst possible time.  I first had lobular breast cancer in 2013 aged 47.  I found out I have secondary lobular breast cancer in September 24 aged 59 which is not curable but it is treatable.  I also thought I would not see another birthday or Christmas  Even if you do get a secondary diagnosis (I sincerely hope that you don't) it can be treated.   There is a lady on the Macmillan website who had triple negative breast cancer like you with lung mets.  After her treatment there is no evidence of the disease (NED).  I am on treatment and my cancer is now stable so there is definitely hope.  When are you getting your results?  Fingers crossed for you.

    Lee x

  • Offline in reply to leelaloo

    Hi Lee

    Thank you for your kind reply.  I feel like I want to talk to others that actually know how I feel right now. 

    I'll try to find the details of the lady from MacMillan, I hope whatever it is can be kept at bay for some time, but luck hasn't been with me so far.

    I'm hoping to get the results very soon.  My Biopsy was 6th and pet CT scan 10th, but known since 19th June that something wasn't right after MRI result. 

    My oncologist has prepared me for Stage 4 as it's the most probable outcome.  Hooe fully the pet CT scan won't show anything else and whatever it is we can get cracking and start treating it. 

    Yesterday I had a results letter come through, but it was my mammogram and it was worded that "They were pleased to confirm it was clear" obviously I am pleased it was clear but it was very insensitive and inappropriate to land whilst waiting on diagnosis of my lung issues. I think that brought my anxiety up to another level and just want to know what I'm facing. 

    Hope you continue to remain stable for a long time to come.  Speak again soon Xx

  • Hello and thanks for posting.

    I'm sorry to read about all you’ve been through and can appreciate that waiting for test results can prey on your mind. Many people describe feeling overwhelmed, with their thoughts going to the worst-case scenario, so it’s no surprise you’re feeling this way. Trying to carry on with everyday life while this uncertainty is there in the background can be exhausting.

    As you can appreciate, until all the results are back, no one can say for certain what they might reveal.

    I see that you've been given some good advice from Lee. I know it’s easier said than done but try and take it one step at a time until you know more. Some people find talking it through with family and friends and keeping busy can sometimes help. Also try and focus on what you can control right now by eating a good diet, getting enough rest, and doing some gentle activities that you enjoy.

    You may find it helpful to know that Breast Cancer Now have an online forum and you may find it helpful talking to other women going through similar things and hear about their different experiences. Macmillan also have an online forum for triple negative breast cancer that may be useful.

    I hope this is of some use. 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

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