Had breast biopsy today - have been told it's most likely cancer

Found a breast lump last week, which felt quite large. GP confirmed and I was referred to the breast clinic. First appointment was 3 weeks from initial GP appointment but i rang and got lucky and had the appointment today. It was a whirlwind of tests: mammogram,  ultrasound and biopsies. It's a hard mobile lump of 2.5 cm (initially thought to be 5cm) but no lymph node swelling felt.

Noone can say until the biopsy result are in but i was told it is likely to be cancer. Subsequent conversations were all positive regarding treatment and prognosis and I  feel fortunate that all these were in the same day and so quick.

Then i got the next appointment sent to me not long after getting home, which wasn't expected and I've  read up a bit, which is terrifying.

I go from dealing with it to panicking, and feeling like I'm going slightly mad with worry.  I know different parts of the country have different pathways. Interested to hear of other experiences and any advice on what to do or how to cope would be greatly appreciated. 

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  • Hi, 

    It sounds like you have been super speedy in getting seen and tested. I know this is a worrying time for you, and coming on here to chat will be a great way to get support from others who understand what you’re going through. 

    Waiting for results is awful! Your mind goes through a million and one different thoughts- from feeling positive to the complete opposite, but the best thing is to just try and stay in the moment and deal with each thing as you come to it. Keep busy, keep distracted and really try to stay off google.

    Sending you lots of love and positive wishes for your appointment xx 

  • I’m literally sat here with a painful breast and arm after having a lump, indentation near nipple and nipple changed direction (facing arm not forwards). Went to gp last Wednesday, been to the breast clinic tonight. Was examined and sent for mammogram and ultrasound. Lady doing mammogram said I’d only had one 6 months ago and They only usually do them every 12 months so I explained to her my symptoms and she went to ask someone for advice. She then came back and said they will do the ultrasound first, and if you need a mammogram, then I will do it.

    Ultrasound, she took lots of pics and measurements on the screen then I went back for two mammograms and one breast. Then had to have two more mammograms done, then back to the ultrasound people who did biopsies and put titanium markers in as a precaution in case they need to do surgery. Was extremely worried by this point as in the past I usually have cysts (Which were drained when I went in January). They then sent me back to mammogram and had two more. Then went to see the specialist and although we have to wait two weeks for the results, he said he wants me to have an MRI. He emphasised that my breast tissue has changed a lot in six months and it is very concerning. He said you know what I mean don’t you? And I said yes but now I’m home after telling my partner and I’m doubting myself!! I was given a leaflet by the nurse that was with him and I thought it was explaining about the biopsy, but it’s a breast care nursing service leaflet.  And beginning to think I’ve made it up? Anaesthetic off quite quickly and I am so sore. Had all over the place…

  • A massive rollercoaster of info and emotion, contradictions and more.  Still not sure of path as too many questions, but yes, there will be a path as it is cancer. Still waiting on a test result which will hopefully make that path a bit clearer.

  • Wow! How is your head and how long do you get to make your decision? I was thinking about you today?  

  • Thank you.  Appreciate the support. Head is, well, insert swear word her?!

    No real decisions to make. The test is for HER2. If + then chemo first.  If not then surgery.  

    But at least i know something, which is better than knowing nothing and worrying. 

    Got to tell my folks now.  

  • Good Luck with that. I am certain they will be 100% supportive. I am telling nobody. I don't think I want support off anyoe I know. They are all dramatic and emotional and I really don't want to have to support them. I am quietly getting my affairs in order. Will made, funeral paid for and someone to adopt my dog. I know that's all very final, but just in case it's all sorted. Whatever I hear this Friday, I'm not sure if I can be bothered with a battle. I am bipolar and have battled all my life, so rest and eternal peace is looking good at the moment. We'll see. Listening to you all is making me feel like I should fight too. 

  • They will be outwardly supportive but practically not so much.  

    I'm sorry to hear of your battles.  Bipolar is tough, especially if you have little support.  My best friend was diagnosed with bipolar in early 20s and she's had a roller coaster ride.

    It's always good to get affairs in order.  I also thought i would review my will and plan my funeral. Think it's a good idea for anyone.  

    Only you can know how you feel. I hope you can get some support from elsewhere - here! Macmillian have a phone line you can use.  I called when i felt massively anxious and it was easier talking to a stranger. 

    Whatever you hear on Friday,  let it settle a bit.  I heard good-ish news and then felt they took all that away and felt it with awful news. 

    Had an awful night.  I realised the hospital had made a traumatic thing even worse because they put theur needs before mine as a patient. (I'm neurodiverse). So now I'm angry and distrustful.

    Give your dog a cuddle. Mine is an endless source of joy and comfort when there's none elsewhere. 

    Thinking of you  x

  • It's funny how that happens. You feel positive and quite upbeat and then things come back to you, and you start questioning everything. When I was there the doctor asked me if I had any questions? I said no but she asked again straightaway my paranoid brain kicked in. I asked if I should have questions and if I was missing something. Then I got left with the 'care nurse' and the same thing happened. My humour is typical Liverpool sarcasm, and when she asked me if I was OK, I told her I was fine because after faied suicide attempts I may finally get my wish without upsetting anyone. I said 'it's a win win for me'. I was joking but there is an element of truth to what I said. However, she took me seriously and rang my mental health team, so I have had them checking up on me since. What area are you in? I am on the Wirral and I am amazed at how organised they are. I just wish things would be quicker, but I can't complain really because they are pretty speedy. I hate not having control. Ex teacher so I like control.

    You're right about the dog. They are a fabulous distraction

  • Heyy maybe you’ll get good news on Friday

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