Mine is 3.5cm too, ER-, PR-, Her2+. Treatment is chemo them lumpectomy, but I didn't ask if mastectomy would give me a better outcome. 

No I didn't ask that either. I think I'm still in shock. Feel sick about it all. 
 

Have you had your lumpectomy? Chemo? Xx

Hello Linda2022.

I just wanted to jump in to let you know that once you have been given a cancer diagnosis you are automatically protected by two pieces of legislation when it comes to your employment. 

Macmillan has some really helpful information on their website as well as a support line that you can call for advice and guidance should you need to. 

Hopefully, all will go smoothly with your new employer but should you need any advice then give Macmillan a call. 

Sending my best wishes for whatever lies ahead. 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

I know the sick feeling so well. And so many questions that there's little point asking myself like how did I not notice such a big lump sooner? I still need an MRI and more biopsies to determine stage. Oncologist appt on 24th Aug, which will be 8 weeks since I found the lump. I dont know how soon after chemo will start. I know the NHS is struggling and im so grateful for what they do, but every week that goes by is another week of growth and spread, which is quite scary. The hope is that chemo will shrink the tumour then they'll remove what's left, or chemo might destroy it completely, all with a view to conserving the breast, but tbh I'd rather lose it if it means I'd have a better chance. But if it's spread into other areas then I guess chemo will zap it all hopefully. Won't know that until I get biopsy and MRI results. Praying for you, lovely x

Hi Jen,

thank you so much for your reassuring advice. It's all be lousy timing. My contract ends with my current school August 31st and my first day of employment with my new school starts Sept 5th. However due to not yet having a contract and everything only being verbal I have been concerned on how it would work out. I have made my new school aware that due to my surgery and treatment staying at the start of September I won't be at work and can't give a date as of yet for return but I will of course keep in contact as and when I know. They said they were unsure about contracts etc but not to worry. My current head (not my new one!) said as I'm under the same local authority they hve a duty to provided continuity of pay under these circumstances. I'm speaking to the Macmillan nurses when they call this Wednesday so I will see what he/she also advises. It's just another one of those things on you mind. 
 

I appreciate your reassurance! 

Hi Linda,

I'm so sorry to hear that the results weren't what you were hoping for, even though they were as you said expected. So many people tell you stay positive but I feel like sometimes you just know when something isn't right, it's good you trusted your instincts and that treatment is now unfolding quite quickly for you. Have you got some support around you for coping with everything?

Sorry about work, I can only imagine how difficult that is. I'm in a tricky spot too, as a supply teacher it has only just dawned on me that if I have to have any kind of extensive treatment I won't be getting paid at all! Starting to wish I'd taken on the permanent job I was offered at the end of last year, but everything 20/20 in hindsight I suppose.  I hope that whichever workplace ends up taking responsibility for your ongoing pay makes it clear to you soon, and I'm glad a moderator was able to point you in the direction of where advice might be available.

Sending you lots of positive vibes and hand holding during the waiting time xxx

Hi Laura,

thank you for your reply. It's such a daunting time and I feel completely out of my depth at times! 
 

I am incredibly lucky, my husband is truly incredible and has been since this journey started a month ago. My daughter has taken it hard, she's only 15 but I can see she's following her Dads lead and between them they'll be a force to he messed with. She's an over thinker and worried (like me!) and we joke as humour gets us through but I know in the big heart of hers she's fearing the worst. My extended family live in Lancashire and Cumbria, We are North Yorkshire. So they are only a few hours away and have also been very supportive. 
 

Have you spoken to Macmillan and had any advice on sources of income you can claim? Xx