I am sorry to hear of your anxiety prior to your lumpectomy this week. I was in the same position 16 years ago and know how worrying it is. Unfortunately, no amount of worry will determine whether the lymph nodes will be involved, or if you'll need chemo. We all know how futile this is, but we still continue to panic! You'll find that the more positive you cab be about the outcome, the better you'll cope.
Do you know what type of cancer you have or what stage it is?
I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in my right breast and had a lumpectomy. Just under 6 months later, I discovered a lump in my other breast, which was pre-cancerous, but within a year, I had a diagnosis of a second cancer in the original breast. At this stage, I had a double mastectomy. Both procedures were very straightforward. I had hormone therapy after both bouts. I started off with Tamoxifen for the first year, but changed to Letrozole after the second bout and I took this for 6½ years. I still lead a busy and fulfilling life after all this time.
I sincerely hope that you get clear margins after your surgery and that you won't need chemo. Do please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.
