Biopsy results today - cancer cells have been found in the lymph nodes of my armpit

Hello

I’m 44. Today I’ve had my biopsy results. Last week I had a biopsy from left armpit lymph node and today I have been told they have found cancer cells. I’m so frightened but I’m trying to not show it to my family. We have told my children (ages 13 and 16) but I know our life as we know is about to change. I’ve just had a phone call and I have been booked in to have a PET scan for tomorrow evening which good.

the doctor has not told me too much because obviously until we get the results from the scans back they don’t know, but I know that if it’s in the lymph node it’s already spread from somewhere else. i am so frightened I can barely stand it. I feel fine physically apart fRon pain in my armpit.


  • Hi Amy,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    I am sorry to hear that your lymph nodes are affected. This is a particularly scary time until you get all of your results back and can start planning for your treatment. I am glad to hear that you don't have long to wait for your PET scan, so hopefully it won't be too long before you get your results. Please try to place your faith in your care team. They know what they're doing and will get you through this.

    I lost my mum to cancer 28 years ago and has 2 bouts of breast cancer, plus one pre-cancer all within a year. I had a lumpectomy first time and a double mastectomy for the second bout, That was all 15 years ago now. I could not get over the difference in my mums experience and my own. Huge strides had been made in diagnostics, treatment and after care and even more have been made since I was treated. It takes some time for the pain in your armpit to settle down, but it will do so eventually.

    I hope that all goes well with your scan tomorrow. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx