Dealing with a new diagnosis when you least expected it

Hi All, 

I have just found out that I have grade two breast cancer at the age of 27. I don't think you can ever prepare for that news and conversations with consultants - but the internet really put me into a false sense of security with my diagnosis as it is so rare in someone my age and I do not have a direct family history of it too.

I am currently still under going more tests to see if it has spread to my lymph nodes, I have a CT and MRI coming up in the next two weeks too. 

I have known this information for around 36-48 hours and have not slept, constantly feel sick and just numb. 

It is likely I am going to under chemo for 4-5 months as a start. 

I guess I just wanted to know if anyone had any tips or advice for how to begin to process it, I know everyone is different but I cannot even start to feel this is real and the idea of saying this outloud to others terrifies me.  

I am also terrified of chemo and the side effects so anyone that has been through that and has any advice I would really like to hear from you. 

It feels weird to even be writing this, I am not one for sharing or talking but I figured this was as good as place as ever to start. 

Thankyou! 

Parents
  • Hi there, 

    So sorry to see another young person diagnosed. 

    If you're on Facebook, there is a 'Younger Breast Cancer Network' group you can join for support or advice on younger person issues, such as work, egg freezing, fertility and relationships etc. There's always someone else feeling exactly the same, and it's a hugely supportive community. There's a huge number of us on there starting, currently going through treatment, or been through and now out the other side and well for many years, in addition to a sub-group for under 30s, so you're definitely not alone with this. 

    Breast Cancer Now also host younger person support days which might interest you too, so do have a look at their website for details.

    Wishing you all the best for your treatment- chemo sounds scary but it's definitely managable and you may not experience the side effects others do, but your team will take good care of you and give you additional medication if needed. Take this time to focus on your wellbeing, and don't feel any pressure to tell others if you don't want to. 

  • Hi, 

    Thanks for your response, finding people my age has been the hard part so thankyou for the recommendation! 

    I will look at those too, thanks! 

    Thank you very much - yes you are right, I think taking it day by day is all I can do atm. 

    I hope you are on the mend too. 

    xx 

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