Stage 1 breast cancer - just been diagnosed and it's finally hit me. Finding it hard to keep this to myself but don't want to worry my family

Hello I have just been diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer on my right breast after a routine mammogram. It was a big shock as always thought I was healthy, I walk a lot and on my feet all day in my job. I am not overweight but have put on weight around my waist, usually middle age spread. I went through menopause about 10 years ago and apparently my tumor is estrogen fed which comes from menopause and added weight. 

I am currently having further tests on my left breast as unusual cells came up on a MRI. Since my diagnosis I have been holding it together and carrying on as normal, but today I came home after a walk and was soaked from the rain and just burst into tears. I am finding this hard to keep to myself but don't want to worry my family so dismissing it.

Has anyone else felt this way? I assume this is normal as the shock has finally hit me.

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat Cherry although I'm sorry to hear you've been diagnosed with breast cancer.

    Finding out you have cancer, especially when it seems to have come out of nowhere, is a lot to take in so be kind to yourself Cherry as you allow yourself the time and space you need to process your diagnosis.

    As you can see on our website, cancer can make you feel a range of emotions, but I hope by joining our community you realise that you are not alone as so many of our members have been through this too and hopefully some of them will stop by soon to offer their support and advice.

    I know you don't want to worry your family with all of this but keeping this to yourself may be doing more harm than good at the moment, so when you feel ready, do consider reaching out to them and letting them know what is going on so they can be there to support you when you need it most.

    We have a team of very understanding cancer nurses you can talk to on 0808 800 4040 as well. Their phone lines are open Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and they will do all they can to support you and address any other questions or concerns you may have at this time.

    In the meantime, our thoughts are with you Cherry and we're wishing you all the best with your further tests.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator