Newly diagnosed with breast cancer

Hi

So I'm new to this...never posted to a group like this before,  so apologies in advance. 

I'm 38 and the last 10 weeks have been very stressfulI, fast moving and infact notice even time to think let alone know how I feel. I'm also a mum with 2 fab kids my youngest 5yrs being a handful and my eldest 10yrs just being super at helping me. 

10 weeks ago I found a lump in my left breast. This was followed by breast clinic checks and then contrast dye MRI.

I was diagnosed with grade 2 invasive breast cancer and they believed mass to be around 5cm and would need surgery. 

My consultant arranged my surgery and I had breast conserving surgery as I am quite large chested. 

Last week meeting with oncologist and I was advised not good healthy margin left so further surgery needed and booked for in 2 weeks.  The cancer removed was 7.2cm in size so larger than they or I expected.

The great news cancer not spread to lymphnodes and I am HER2 Negative - these both great news.

I am waiting for results
For Genetics test - this was suggested from consultant.
Oncotype dx test to decide if chemotherapy required.

 

At moment treatment plan is radiotherapy confirmed and will be 3 full weeks (15 sessions) and suggested I take tamoxifen for around 5yrs but likely needed for 10yrs. 
 
I have been struggling emotional last few days especially as I saw my breast first time since surgery and loss my nipple so a lot to take in as I face further surgery. 
 
Not sure why I'm posting I guess just to say hi tell my journey and talk to people who actually understand how I feel. 

 

Thanks for taking time to read

 

  • Hi Pink, I totally understand your position in all this, it is so distressing for most people diagnosed with Breast cancer particularly if they have children, fortunately my children are all grown up.

    I too was diagnosed with IDC in September last year, It was grade 3 ER positive node negative  BC, 2 cm lump. I too had a lumpectomy but also had the oncotype test done which shown I would benefit from chemo. I had 6 cycles following surgery and then radiotherapy and am now on Letrozole fir 5 years.

    It is quite distressing seeing yr wound for the first time but it will heal and looking at it gets easier, I am 7 month post surgery and you can barely tell I've had anything done, it is a bit indented I have to say but I'm fine with it.

    It is certainly a rollercoaster ride for most people. I havnt come across anyone that hasn't worried themselves sick about this journey and this continues even after treatment, it's only natural!

    Its difficult to tell anyone not to worry but in order to get through all this it helps to try to think positive which I certainly know is hard. Maybe remember too that this journey will come to an end and you will start to live again, maybe a bit differently but it will come back just takes time.

    Good luck with your next surgery hopefully that will be the last. 
    There are lots of lovely helpful ladies on here so please just keep asking if you need help, you will get the support you need from others that have experienced the same or similar experiences. Anything I can help with please just ask.

     

    Take care lovely xx