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

Bookworn
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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. 

  • Offline in reply to Frankiemo

    I likes control but i like to understand more. Unfortunately everything I've been told is riddled with contradictions. 

    I'll be at xxxxx for radiotherapy.

  • Offline in reply to Frankiemo

    Expect worst and hope for the best is my motto but the again I'm an Evertonian

  • Offline in reply to Bookworn

    Evertonian - that made me smile x

  • Offline in reply to Angel-1

    It usually does. I get pity too! 

  • Offline in reply to Bookworn

    I am glad I found this thread how are you all coping? I honestly had no idea that these lumps can just appear over night but from reading here it’s very common and shocking. 

  • Offline in reply to Frankiemo

    Hi Frankiemo, 

    I just wanted to wish you the best of luck for Friday. I am keeping everything crossed for you and wanted you to know we are here for you. Waiting for results is a really anxious time and as the mental health team as been reaching out to you, don't hesitate to let them know how you are feeling - they are there to help so if you feel down or upset about anything, make sure you talk to them about it. 

    You can get in touch with Samaritans about anything that's troubling you at any time of the day or night and you can call them for free on 11612 and I thought I would also mention the charity Mind if you need additional support or information during this time of uncertainty or after you get your results. 

    I am pleased to see you have connected with other forum members here who are going through something similar and you can be there for one another and understand what you are going through at the moment. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline in reply to Mamabear8

    Seriously, didn't know that either. I had been having blood tests for about 4 weeks because I had suspected haemochromotosis. About 4 days before I was due to get the results I saw the lump straight away. Couldn't miss it. It felt the size of a golf ball. It's only 2cms but feels so much bigger. Even if I had missed it the day before, there is no way I missed it for weeks.

    What's your story?

  • Offline in reply to Frankiemo

    I literally woke up one morning and it was there it’s about 3 cms long and just over a cm wide but is very hard. Had started my period that day so thought I would wait a bit to see if it was hormonal and would disappear (never had any kind of lump before) so waited 2 weeks and it hasn’t changed at all hasn’t grown but hasn’t shrunk either so I called my gp surgery for advice. They said I needed to be seen asap and gave me an appointment in the hour. Gp did a thorough examination and said there is some small lumps in the lymph nodes that could be just spots but there is some swelling in the lymph nodes too. I asked her if she thinks it’s serious and she said she is concerned and referring me to the breast clinic. She said if I have heard nothing in 2 weeks she will chase it up. She also said any changes at all to let her know. So now I’m just waiting. My shoulder are so tense and painful I can’t sleep. I am second guessing every symptom I have had over the last year. My armpits and sort and my boobs feel tingly like when pregnant so I’m freaking out. Deffo not pregnant tubes are tied x

  • Offline in reply to Mamabear8

    You should receive an appointment very soon. If you know the hospital, ring them up yourself. Where I am they are very efficient, but I think they are good everywhere. 

    Distraction is the best practice. Do what relaxes you. Have you tried mindfulness? I honestly am relaxed about it but it's natural for your mind to wander. Some people hit google, but I woud say to stay away until you know more, otherwise you will imagine you have everything

    A good boxset does it for me or a thrilling film. Total escapism. Have you yold anyone?

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