Been told I have breast cancer

Got told today that I most certainly have breast cancer. I wont know more details until my biopsy results come in. But im completely spiralling and feel like Iv been hit by a bus. 

They said the lump is very large and there is a second smaller lump also in my breast, as well as spread to my lymph nodes. Iv been told that my treatment will be 'the full works'. And im absolutely terrified that Im going to die and my children wont even remember me (i have a 3 month old and an almost 3 year old). 

I felt this lump for a while but my breasts were quite lumpy when I was pregnant and in the weeks after so I didnt really notice it as anything worrying. 

I guess Im just wanting to hear some positive stories, as the fact that it has spread to my lymph nodes is particularly worrying.

  • Hi Nat818,

    A very warm welcome to the forum.

    The way you are feeling just now is perfectly normal. It will take some time for it to fully sink in. I just want to tell you that cancer is no longer the certain death sentence that it used to be. I lost my mum to secondary breast cancer after a hard fought 12 year battle with the disease. When I was first diagnosed, I was terrified that I would suffer the same fate. Fortunately, diagnosis, treatment and after care have all made tremendous advancements, and there was just no comparison between what we both experienced. Treatment was a challenge, but "doable" and I am still here 16 years after 2 bouts of breast cancer within a year.

    It is only natural to worry about leaving your children behind - I did too, but I have since seen them leave school, go to university, graduate, find gainful employment, fall in love, marry and provide me with 2 beautiful grandchildren. You will find that the more positive you can be throughout your treatment the better you'll cope with it.

    Have you been told when your biopsy results will be back? This is always an anxious wait, so I hope that you don't have to wait too long to hear. Believe it or not, you'll feel a little less anxious once you know exactly what you are dealing with.

    Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx