Hi

Going through similar, I've found a lump in my left breast and it is quite tender and painful, I'm 32 and a mum of three boys aged 9,10 and 12.

I have my appointment at the breast clinic this Monday, I was referred by my GP the Friday before last, and got my appointment details within 48 hours. Ive had such a hard week, I've hardly slept or eaten, and my head feels like it is going to fall off. 

Please don't use Google as a doctor it's full of misinformation, and bad advice. Please try not to worry, easier said than done, I know! And most lumps turn out not to be cancer, there are lots of other possible causes - abcesses, cysts, the list goes on. 

Hello,

I am a cancer patient who has done the chemo, surgery and is currently going through radiotherapy (for a month) which has just started and am having infusion every 3 weeks until Nov.

Firstly, can I ask whether you know much about your appointment that you say should happen in 2 weeks time?

My symptoms before I was diagnosed were a lump (sounds like the same place as you,) an uneven shaped breast, fatigue and hot flushes (because my cancer is hormonal.) 

I don't know if I can put your mind at ease, but all I can say is what happened at my appointment 2 weeks after I was referred for tests. The doctor said 'whatever it is we can handle it.' I knew it was cancer from that moment. I didn't need to wait until the results so I got googling (reliable sources!)

Some tips and truths for if it cancer from me to you...

Knowledge is power

Chemo although yes is the hardest part and makes you feel rubbish, is not as bad as you'd think

The surgery, as long as it is not a mastectomy (I can't speak for that myself) was a breeze

Radiotherapy so far I'd strangely say is like going to a spa. Relaxing somehow after all I've been through.

Infusions, nothing but a pain in the *** having to go to hospital every 3 weeks.

What I will also say is that for me it's been the mental and emotional strain that's taken its toll so here are some tips here...

DO talk to someone, anyone, even if it's someone you think you shouldn't be talking to because you feel you have to protect a closer loved one.

STAY in the present and although hard, the sooner you accept it the better you'll feel mentally and emotionally. It will be a long journey if you are diagnosed. It will be an exhausting journey. Staying calm and determined is the way to be about it.

DONT listen to those who say stay strong. You are strong in your own way even if you are crying to the point where your eyes sting and you can't see anything. You're feelings are valid and if you end up repeating your fears time and time again when you talk to people, it doesn't matter. Don't feel guilty about anything you express or blame yourself for any form of behaviour that you might present to those around you.

Lastly, when you come through it, you will see everyone and everything very differently. Those who stand by you will be so dear to you in a way you never thought you could feel.

Good luck and look after yourself.

Thank you for your advice and helpful information. I have found lumps before and had the same process but none have felt or been like this which is why I'm worrying alot more.

Good luck with your infusions and thank you again. 

Hi 

Thank you for your information. You got your appointment really quick then, I was worrying with all that's going on they may not even see people. I know I really shouldn't of googled and should just wait till I go to the hospital to find out for certain. 

I hope all goes well with your appointment, will keep my fingers crossed for you.

Good luck.