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 

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

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

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 

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

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