Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 7 replies
  • Views 829 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Appt with breast surgeon at short notice. Panicking!

Dorestgirl
Offline

Hi 

I had an abnormality picked up at routine mammogram screening and attended our local assessment breast clinic. Diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound and 4xcore biopsies done within a week with radiologist saying she was of the view that I had breast cancer in my left breast and that it was good I had gone for my screening as the lump (7/8mm ) could not be felt via examination. She said lymph nodes looked OK and she was not concerned. She asked if I'd had a recent vaccination as the lymph nodes looked like I had been vaccinated  and I confirmed flu 2 weeks  previously and covid 6 days previously both in that left arm 

I was given an appointment with the breast surgeon for 25th November ( earliest appointment available) but breast care nurse said she was going to request it came forward but would not likely be before MDT on 16th November. I then got a phone call today saying my biopsy results were back (so dast?!!) and there'd been an MDT meeting today and could I come in this Thursday at 11.20. They would not tell me anything on the phone which I know is usual

I fell apart and I'm now running all kinds of mad scenarios through my head. I had prepared myself for a confirmed diagnosis of BC and was accepting of that but this unexpected speedy appointment has sent me into a tail spin and I'm convinced of all kind of sinister other possible worse scenarios. 

I phoned my original breast nurse who gently reminded me that she was going to ask for an earlier appointment and I should not read anything into it but I can't shake the paranoia right now. I'm trying to focus on how efficient and quick an experience I'm having and the facts I know so far ( estimated size of lump / lymph nodes appear OK / likely early BC) but how do you stop those darker thoughts from crowding in?? 

  • Offline

    Hi there, I absolutely know it's so hard waiting and then so hard when you get notified of an appointment change or an unexpected appointment (which was my case). I just wanted to say that it is really good news that you are being seen this  Thursday and not waiting a few more weeks. The waiting really is the hardest part. I would just embrace the fact that on Thursday you will know whether their suspicions are confirmed or not. They may not be, but even if they are you will then know what your situation is and start looking at positive steps for treatment, which as I keep telling myself, BC is highly treatable.  Try to spend some time tomorrow doing something that relaxes you, what works for everyone is different, but doing something that makes you feel good will help you get through to Thursday. Sending positivity to you, best wishes Mickey 

  • Offline

    Hi, I just wanted to say I was thinking of you and if you want to chat about Thursdays outcome anytime. Mickey x

  • Offline in reply to MickeyM

    Aah bless you Mikey for thinking of me. Thank you for your kindness.

    The biopsy results came back super fast so that's why I was moved forward so my catastrophising was not warranted. Invasive ductal breast cancer confirmed 8mm and grade 2. Lymph nodes appear OK and currently no concern re them. Caught very early as still can't be felt

    Local wide incision with sentinel node excision booked for 7th December. Need a wire inserted in the morning to help guide surgeon..I already have a clip in. No more appointments now until consent appointment on 2nd then covid test and 3 days pre op isolation. Consultant immensely reassuring..said "100% sortable" and thinks chemo unlikely as she is expecting it to be confirmed hormorne responsive. At this stage she's not sure if I'll need radiotherapy and said if I do it'll be 5 days (which seems super short???) We did have a general chat about potential post op drug treatment but will need final biopsy results of course to confirm. 

    Although I would prefer to have had negative findings ( wouldn't we all!!!) I feel relieved as it feels doable and everyone is clear they expect a positive outcome.

    While I was having my pre op assessment ( that was done on that visit too)  there was a young women with her parents who was on her second op for DCIS and was now having a mastectomy and chemo so I felt fortunate to be where I am if you understand what I mean. She was with her parents and talking about how they'd need to manage the school run etc. I'm nearly 57 so don't have that balancing act and my family and work have been brilliant. My director contacted me to support and  shared her story of have BC 3 years ago when needed to full works treatment wise and was off work for a year. At this rate, unless things change of course I will barely be off work which seems bizarre. 

    One step at a time of course and not counting chickens but I'm grateful for screening and the care I have had so far has been truly incredible and responsive 

    Thank you again Mikey xxx

  • Offline in reply to Dorestgirl

    Hi again, that does sound very positive and it's fabulous that you have your date already and so soon. I know what you mean, but you're quite right as it goes, you have caught it really quickly and they are pushing ahead to get you sorted and so swiftly.  Hopefully they won't find anything in the lymph nodes and you won't not need further treatment other than the hormone treatment if you are positive. Keep me posted, it's great to hear that you've had your pre-op assessment as well. Im also glad your Director shared her experience, I think it always helps us put things in some sort of perspective when everything is a challenge. Take care oh you. Mickey xx 

  • Offline in reply to MickeyM

    Thanks Mickey. I will let you know how things pan out as things can always change of course. Either way I should be clear before Christmas what 2022 will bring treatment wise so cant ask for more than that. At a time when our NHS is so stretched and under pressure to receive the speedy and compassionate care I have received is incredible and I am truly  grateful. Its a bit weird to have had just 3 appointments if you include the initial screening mammogram and have had all necessary tests and assessments and  now just have 4 week week for the actual op. The "one stop shop" type approach really is beneficial 

    Everything crossed it continues to be so straightforward 

    Much love x

  • Offline in reply to Dorestgirl

     

    Hi Dorsetgirl,

    I have just read your story so far and I am glad to hear that you have caught this early and that there is no lymph node involvment. It is always a shock to receive a cancer diagnosis and it is a diagnosis that nobody wants. However, breast cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer today and outcomes are infinitely better than they used to be.

    After your surgery, the tissue removed will be sent to Pathology and this will determine whether or not your cancer will respond to hormone therapy. I do hope that all goes well for you on 7th December.

    Please keep in touch. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Offline in reply to Dorestgirl

    Morning, It is great news that your hospital have been so on the ball and you will have it all done in time for Christmas. I hope it does continue to be straightforward too, all the signs are very positive. I'll keep everything crossed for you. Much love back Mickey 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.