Cancer Research UK main site

Initial breast cancer diagnosis at 37

NJP2021
Offline

Hi all,

 

Ive just been given the initial diagnosis of breast cancer, although they're awaiting the biopsy and fine needle results after finding a large lump in my breast. 

 

I'm in total shock. I'm a fit and healthy person of 37.i have 2 young children under 5 who I went through hell for them via ivf. Now I'm terrified that I might not get to see my precious babies grow up.

Im awaiting a panel meeting on Thursday to find out what stage I'm at and how they're going to treat me.

The lump in my breast has suddenly grown exponentially and retracted my nipple etc but I just assumed it would be a cyst. I'm in total shock. They suspect it may have spread to my lymph nodes too. Heartbreaking. I just wish I'd been seen 5 weeks ago but I kept thinking it was hormones or exercise that was to blame. I have a mirena coil and often blamed that for my hard breasts.

Im worried about other symptoms I've suffered with over last 8 months now, like dizziness and vit d deficiency and a salt taste in my mouth. I've been docs for them but have always found they've tested and prescribed appropriately. I've felt tired but who wouldn't working 2 jobs with 2 young kids and a full exercise regime.  I'm worried that I've had it way longer and it's had time to get real deep. 

 

I am in limbo until Thursday and can't help thinking the worst. I keep looking at my kids and feel totally overwhelmed about the possibility I might not see them grow up. 

I'm looking for people that I can talk to and for advice on what to ask at the panel meeting with regards to treatment and prognosis. I'm not ready to give up my life :( 

Any support and advice would be greatly appreciated. 

 

 

 

 

  • Offline in reply to rmscj

    Thank you for your post. How long are you undergoing chemotherapy for and how has it affected your ability to look after your baby? I'm worried about the sickness from the treatment. 

  • Offline in reply to Catndog

    Good luck with the scan tomorrow. Please keep me posted. Happy to chat. X

  • Offline in reply to NJP2021

    Hi,

    I am having 6 sesions of chemotherapy every 3 weeks. I've just had my third cycle. I actually go to stay with my parents for the week or so after my chemo so they can help out with my baby which has been very helpful. It will be different for everyone but I was told that due to my age the symptoms may not be so bad which was a bit reassuring. There's also things they can do with your medication if you do find you are struggling with the side effects of chemo. It's not fun but i've only really been poorly in between cycles for about 4/5 days. Then although i don't feel great I can function and have mild symptoms for a few days, then almost go back to normal and feel fine. I've found it's so helpful to focus on the nice things I can do when i'm feeling better especially with my baby. 

    You may get different symptoms in between cycles if you have to have chemotherpay. I've found this to be the case so far and there's always somone to call at the hospital if you are struggling. I struggled with nausea and sickness after my last cycle so I've been given extra medication this time so hoping that will help, but I had almost no sickness and nausea the first time. 

     

  • Offline

    Hi,

    I'm in the same boat as you. Found the lump in my left breast (2cm by 3cm) last week, straight to doctors two days later, then appointment at clinic yesterday. They found a smaller lump which they think is benign and one of my lymph nodes slightly enlarged (by 0.2mm) so I had three biopsies, two mammograms and an ultrasound, as well as two clips put in. They've told me they're pretty certain the biggest lump is cancer and I get my results next Thursday.

     

    I am petrified. I've got a vomiting phobia so the idea of chemo and a general anaesthetic terrifies me as well as the obvious worries. I'm up and down with emotions - fine one minute and sobbing the next.

    x

  • Offline in reply to Coxicles

    Hey, 

          I'm sorry you find yourself in this situation, i know what you mean about the emotions being all over the place, it hits me worst when im trying to sleep as i start worrying will my colleagues notice i've been off at short notice, will they ask why, what do i tell them at least until i know more myself.  Has your Consultant said if you need a full CT scan as well, I have mine today and considering i only saw the consultant on Thursday so the speed of progress through the system is terrifying me. 

    xx

  • Offline in reply to Catndog

    They've not mentioned a CT scan - just had the biopsies and off to get the results on Thursday. I hope your scan goes well today xx

  • Offline in reply to Coxicles

    Ive been up and down all day. So worried about he spread and want a full body scan now!!! I've had a headache all day and am worrying constantly about life span now. I'm still in shock and totally traumatised. 

  • Offline in reply to Coxicles

    The scan went well, it was a quick easy process, just a strange feeling when they injected the contrast dye, i'm just now trying to look my work sickness policy as at the moment until i have a confirmed diagnosis i'm using annual leave to attend my appointments, i want to keep on working as long as possible but i'm aware that dependant on my treatment plan this may not be possible. I received a copy of the referral report today that my GP has received, it states my lump is atypical/suspicious and measures 4x4.5cm, the part that scares me is that it lists todays scan as a staging scan which suggest to me that he feels its advanced, i wish i hadn't read the letter my mind is now convinced that i'll have to have a mastectomy. My breast aches as the bruising from the biopsy is starting to come out and its painful to sleep on that side.

  • Offline in reply to Catndog

    Yeah mine hurts too but the itching from the steri strips is the worst! I've not had a copy of my report. Try not to worry until you get the results - easier said than done, I know xx

  • Offline in reply to NJP2021

    I am too. I don't even care about losing my breast or hair etc... xx

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.