Hi Noplacelikehome

I'm one of the ones that had a lesser grade and no lymph node involvement but didn't want to read your post and run. A couple of family members have had breast cancer, my aunt 'A' had grade 3, with lymph node involvement, chemo, radiotherapy, and mastectomy, two years later had a recurrence and had more chemo, that was 10 years ago and she's still here alive and kicking. My other aunt 'J' had stage 1, no lymph involvement, and sadly died of BC 18 months later.

Everyone focuses on grade/stage etc in order to try and establish outcomes but cancer doesn't always work out like that as my example shows.

I have also met stage 4 BC patients who are still alive 6+ years after diagnosis. The treatments have improved over the years and although no cure, more people are living for years/decades after a cancer diagnosis.

I know how frightening this all can be and the mind will turn to worst case scenario if we let it, try living in the moment rather than writing yourself off. I doubt your days are numbered, there are many ladies on here who have been where you are and are on here to tell their tale.

I'll keep you in my thoughts and fingers crossed that the results won't be as bad as you think. x

Hi Magpiemaggie,

Thank you for taking the time to respond and to share experiences. I'm reassured by your Aunts journey - despite a re-occurrence (I can't imagine how traumatic that must be!).

As you suggest I will focus on living in the moment. This should be possible with 2 young children to entertain me and keep me very present.

Thank you again for your kindness in my hour of need 

x

Hi Laurenren,

I'm sorry that you must have experienced what I am feeling now. Thank you for replying to me, it is a comfort to know that someone else is in a similar boat - just a little ahead. It's also helpful to know that you are feeling more positive. 

I will friend request you - thank you for offering that. Perhaps I maybe able to support you at times too as we are at similar stages in our lives. 
 

x
 

Hi there 

So sorry you've had this diagnosis every one fears ... I had a grade 3 breast lump, and at that time was preying to see the 7 week summer holiday to spend with my granddaughter before I went ... I'd heard how bad a grade 3 could be ... that was in 2017 .... I'm now in another summer holiday with her 4 years on and my last yearly test went well too ...

It's not always grades that mean how servere it is ... there's lots of different factors ... I've learned a lot sinse then ... we hear the ones that lost out to breast cancer on the news but there are a lot moving on with it .. I came on here like you, and got talking to another 6 lasses going through various breast cancers and stages and different treatments ... most of them have gone back to their life post cancer.. and one lass has had two babies after her chemo treatments... as far as I know we've not lost one yet ..

Getting in the right mode I think goes a long way ... yes rant, cry, and cuss it all ... it's not fare and we all get those days ... but then get back up... get some vertual pink boxing gloves.... step in the ring... look it in the eye and punch it right back .. cancer wants us to feel lost and give up ... it makes it stronger ... so don't let it ... you'll be on a rollercoaster emotional ride but it is doable ... it's not about winning or losing... it's about holding on tight... and know your not alone, many are on that same ride as you ... wer all there .. sending you a vertual hug.... you can do this, your stronger then you think ... Chrissie x x 

You're welcome, I'm sure you'll feel more in control once you have your treatment plan and know whats ahead of you. Be kind to yourself and treat yourself to nice things through this journey as it does help.

Thank you so much. I have been on that rollercoaster that you mentioned today. Tears, panic and moments of optimism. I called the helpline when I was closest to the edge and they got me through. I liked your suggestion of 'holding on tight'. I was thinking about that on the rocky patches. I'm so glad your supportive girls are doing ok and even having children. That is quite something to raise spirits. X