Hello Tobeholly, I am so sorry for the reason you've had to post, sometimes it all seems too much and when you're dealing with so much its hard to know which way to turn.  Anyway, there are a lot of ladies on this lovely friendly forum who can help you, we also have Moderators who may be able to help and there is also a phone line if you want to speak to a nurse for a chat and a little clarification.  So just popped by to say good luck with whatever happens, not much help otherwise as we're dealing with lung cancer.  I bet you have numerous replies before the day is out.  A big hug your way,  Carol x

Hello Carol.

thank you for your message and taking the time.

sorry to hear about your fight, my thoughts are with you and your family  , sending hugs right back to you.

Holly xx

hi

Sorry to hear the reason you are here and the experiences you are having during such a stressful and anxious time. 

I’m a little older than you,  43 and have children so don’t have the additions of fertility to contend  with but was diagnosed with BC in March, spread to my lymph nodes and I have currently completed round 4 of chemo, then I will have a mastectomy, radiotherapy and reconstruction at some point.

The initial period after diagnosis feels like a bit of a whirlwind doesn’t it with all the tests and scans, it will settle down once you have your treatment plan in place. Have you been assigned a breast care nurse? I would suggest giving them a call if you have, mine was a god send during this period and helped chase things up and get the right people talking to each other.  They normally wait for all scans to come back and then discuss everything on a MDT meeting where all the specialists come together to agree the best plan for you. If you need chemo you will meet with an oncologist who should be able to confirm your treatment to the fertility clinic.  

I know it’s hard but keep pushing for answers. Stay strong, I’m sure some other people will pop on but as well on the forum to offer support. 

I’m here if you need a chat, a rant or a virtual hug.

WL

Hi holly.

Sorry you have been left with no answers. I know its a horrible time as i am 37 and was diagnosed 16th july after initial tests 4th. Was told yesterday i need surgery first (masectomy needed) and would have chemo after with hormone meds and herceptin.

No surgery date given yet but was offered reconstruction but not sure i want it as sounds a horrible op. Was told prosthetic wouldnt look good as healthy breast too big and he could put an implant in if i want but 3 sizes smaller! So i have been offered reconstruction but have no idea what to pick and have to choose tuesday coming.

I have seen my consultant 3 times since initial meeting so a month sounds a long time to me. I was also given a nurse who is great to call for more info. 

I had to have 4 ultrasounds and biopsies though so kept going back for more results.

Do you know what treatment you need post surgery? This could impact immediate reconstruction possibly.

I was also told from nurse that surgery will be withon 4 weeks. Hope yours is soon too. 

I have been referred for genetic tests but still no appointment. Bit annoyed as outcome may change my reconstruction options eg why have massive reconstruction using muscle if remove other one soon anyway? Was told tough when asked.. there is a waiting list. 

Have you got any more appointments booked in yet?

Hello,

thank you for your reply and I’m sorry to hear of your diagnosis.

what you’ve said has put my mind slightly at ease as it makes sense I guess, they need all the results to be able to move forward with a plan. Just wish I knew now so I can try and mentally prepare ( if that’s even possible ) .

my thoughts are with you and stay strong as you sound like an amazing woman!!

also here for chats and virtual hugs x

Hi Nat,

thanks for your reply.

sounds like we’ve had the same kind of time frame, feels like a lifetime huh?!

are you feeling better for knowing you have a slight care plan in place? Or does it make it feel all too real?

ive had tests, met with people and told what can and can’t be done but so far there’s no structure, I don’t know what order or when things will be done.

3 sizes smaller? I don’t understand what goes through some people’s heads?! Why can’t they give you the same size as the other? Before they denied me immediate reconstruction, they mentioned to me about using an implant and also using muscle and tissue from another part of my body to build it up but I have none spare as quite a small girl due to having an eating disorder.

perhaps see if they could do a big of both if you decide on reconstruction.

Tuesday next week is so soon, I’m so sorry you need to make such a big decision in such a short time ! Your mind must be all over the place.

the genetic testing seems to be taking the longest. I had the blood test the day they said they needed to do the testing and that was 3 weeks tomorrow. Apparently the results take about a month to come through so I hope they get the ball rolling for you soon.

so is Tuesday your next appointment?

i have no more appointments booked so pretty much a sitting duck, 

holly x