I have been reading through all your responses and the forum and have really helped me through this waiting period. Thank you everyone.

No diagnosis yet, they called me back to the breast surgery this week to tell me that my biopsy results weren't back yet, but that the pathologist said "there's something sinister" in the cyst so will be going for an MRI. My partner and I are assuming it is cancer from that, with the bright side that the lymph node biopsy (per initial unofficial comments) was looking clean.

Hopefully the biopsy results will come in time for the next MDT meeting so we can start discussing treatment options.

On a related note that is now adding to my worries, does anyone have experience/tips on how to bring this up at work? I have been taking some time off for the medical appointments and they knew I was going to the doctors but I have been vague about it. I'm in a tricky situation as I am currently on a contract term ending in a few weeks. There's talks of possibly taking me in permanently, but that was started before I first went to my GP. Quite anxious about adding this to the decision making. I want to be honest about it including treatment and expected time off/requesting work from home as needed. What will be the best way to discuss it, and with whom?

HI Paroco,

I am sorry to hear that your results are not back yet, but hope that they will be back in time for the next MDT meeting. It is reassuring that your lymph nodes appear to be clear. Have you got a date for your MRI yet? If not, I hope that it comes through soon.

As someone who has been self-employed nearly all of my working life, I would not presume to give you advice on your work predicament, but I do hope that someone else will come across with some useful advice.

Please keep in touch and let us know when you get your results. We are always here for you.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi thank you! And totally understand, my work situation is a bit too specific.

MRI was already done, the appointment was set pretty quickly. I just had my diagnosis appointment today and confirmed it's grade 2 cancer. Estrogen positive and HER2 negative, which per my understanding make it slightly more manageable. I feel better about it than I initially thought, knowing the specifics helped me come to terms with it.

I have my lumpectomy scheduled for the end of 2024, and we will discuss further treatment after the tissue is looked at in the lab.

Hi Paroca,

Thank you for the update. I am sorry that it is cancer, but glad that it is treatable. Irrespective of the outcome, it is always easier to cope with once you have some answers and know what lies ahead. It is good to hear that your lumpectomy should be at the end of this month and your treatment will be decided on the outcome of your post-surgical results.

Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. Remember, we are always here for you.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi Paroca, I'm so sorry that you've had this diagnosis confirmed. However I'm glad you have a plan and the operation will go ahead by the end of the year. Take it one step at a time. I certainly found having a plan helpful and more settling than the wait for the outcome of the results.  As Jolamine says we are here if you need us. 

Hi Paroca,

Have you had your surgery now and if so, how did it go?
Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi Jolamine, thank you for checking in.

Yes, I've had my surgery and I must say I am lucky to have recovered quickly. I am waiting for the lab test results to be discussed in my next appointment, keeping my fingers crossed until then.

HI Paroca,

I am delighted to hear that you have had your surgery and are recovering well. This is always an anxious wait until you get your post-operative results. I hope that they come through soon and that they are favourable.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

HI Paroca,

I am delighted to hear that you have had your surgery and are recovering well. This is always an anxious wait until you get your post-operative results. I hope that they come through soon and that they are favourable.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx