Hi,

Where to start without sounding dramatic but boy I’m scared!  Just over a week ago I was called back for a second mammogram screening, I was in complete shock when I was told I have breast cancer. I am 51 years old, there is no history of cancer in my family so I though I would be ‘ok’. The cancer is quite small, less than 2cm I believe, in my left breast and not spread to the lymph nodes (I think) so that’s positive, right?

I have an appointment next Wednesday to discuss the biopsy results and treatment plan, I’m trying to just get my head round this and what my options are and of course, what’s best for me? I’ve read some blogs on here and aware that there are many people in much worse circumstances than me so please don’t think I’m moaning or feeling sorry for myself, I’m not. It’s hard to speak to family, it was even harder to tell them about this, I hate seeing my mother, children, my husband and siblings sad, worried, upset so I keep upbeat but inside I’m so so scared!

Has anyone chosen a mastectomy over breast conserving? I just want this out of me but how do you cope with the emotional turmoil of either losing a breast or ending up with a different breast?

At the moment and hopefully coincidentally I have high ALT so have to have another liver function test, no symptoms of liver damage, I don’t drink alcohol and lead a fairly fit and active life. I’m praying the ALT levels have gone down (if that even happens?) and that it’s not connected to the breast cancer but a little nag in my head keeps me awake at night wondering, worrying.

I hope everyone else is doing ok... I’m not sure what else to say so rather than prattle on...

Take care and keep smiling.

Karen xx