So I went off to what I thought was a normal breast screening...but within 3 weeks I was informed that not only do I breast cancer but I also have incurable bone cancer! I'm still trying to come to terms with it but....
I cannot express how sorry I am to hear this news and am not at all surprised that this has come as such a shock. Any cancer diagnosis is devastating, but it is even more difficult to come to terms with when you hear the word "incurable". Have you got good support at home? You may find it helpful to speak to a counsellor at one of the cancer charities. I attended one at a Maggie's centre and found it helpful to put my life into perspective. Many cancers may be incurable but they are also treatable - is this the case with you? I lost my mum to untreatable secondary breast cancer, which had spread to her liver, lungs, brain and bone. Sadly, that was before so many innovative treatments had been discovered.
Make a list of any questions you have and ask your consultant about them at your next visit. Also make an appointment to see a cancer counsellor - it really does help to talk to someone openly about this. Remember there's no such thing as an insignificant question - no matter how minor it might seem. If it bothers you, it's important.
Hi Loony, sorry to read about your diagnosis. As Jolamine says any cancer diagnosis is devastating but to be diagnosed with secondary cancer de novo is even more of a shock. I am sure it is overwhelming for you right now and your world has been turned upside down. It does get easier over time although you won't think so now. I was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer with extensive bone mets in September 2024. I started treatment in about December. Yesterday I had oncology appointment and my cancer is stable and oncologist was so positive and said many people live good lives for many years to come. In fact after the last PET scan my skull mets can no longer be seen. I have a good life and walk my dogs, go for meals all the things I did before. My husband and I have been abroad on holiday, all the things that I thought I would never do again. The main thing is if the cancer is treatable. What treatment are you going to have? I am happy to chat anytime.
