Hi Kiwirunner, have not logged on in the last few weeks as been really busy at work, but glad to see that things have progressed and you have some dates in the diary and clear plan of what's ahead. Probably your next major thing will be telling extended friends, family and colleagues, so fingers crossed for that. Sounds like the breast surgeon is nice and easy to talk to which must help when it comes to asking questions etc. Also glad that you were able to take your husband in with you for support and a second pair of eyes and ears. Please keep updating, if you feel upto it, so that we can follow your progress and anytime yiu may feel you'd like a chat, then feel free to PM me.

Hi Janeylou, I'll be thinking of you tomorrow xxx

Hi Kimmarie, when you feel upto it, the Victoria Derbyshire blogs that she made during her treatment look very useful. She explains really well about her mastectomy initially and I learnt things that i didn't realise (in a positive way) Can't imagine what you're going through, i was lucky as my diagnosis was clear. Please keep posting and I'll do my best in anyway to try and support, if that's something you'd like. 

Hi [@Mumofteen]‍ thanks for checking in on everyone - that is really kind. I have heard good things about Victoria's account of her experience. [@KimMarie]‍ how are you feeling now that you have had a few days to digest your news of last week? Not easy I am sure but I hope you have some good support and we are here too if/when you need a download xx

So the latest update from me. Timeline to date:

Screening mammogram in Dec.

Recall letter 24 Dec (nice timing).

Assessment clinic on 5 Jan. Told I was recalled for area in upper outer quadrant on left breast. Have diagnostic mammogram. Consultant radiologist reads the slides and says that area is OK but they have now spotted a new area of concern. This is lower inner quadrant on same breast and is in the exact area where I realise that I have puckering (looks like two lines - one about two inches long and one about an inch long just above it) when I put my arms above my head.

Radiologist does an ultrasound and says it looks like cancer so does a needle biopsy.

Fast forward to 15 Jan appt for results in meeting with breast surgeon.

She says it is complicated as biopsy is inconclusive but MDT think it is cancer but can't confirm. She books me in for surgery on 16 Feb and then books MRI for 21 Jan and another biopsy on 28th (today)

So today... not what I expected. Another diagnostic mammogram then a meeting with a different consultant radiologist (assessment clinic at a different hospital but I am now under care of my local one). She says MRI indicates the lower inner quadrant area does look cancerous. But new news is the area I was recalled on in upper outer quadrant and supposedly cleared for now looks suspicious after the MRI and they need to biopsy it.

Two rather 'challenging' vacuum assisted biopsies. The first takes an hour and I have to lie in my side on a bed with my boob sandwiched in the mammogram. Advised to close my eyes so I don't see the huge needle. Staff are amazing and chat away to me. Titanium marker added and another mammogram to check it is in place.

Cup of tea then back into ultrasound room with consultant radiologist for another vacuum biopsy on lower inner quadrant. As she administers the local anaesthetic the needle bends at 90 degrees due to tough tissue in my breast. She says she has never seen that before. Eek! Another needle and then on with the biopsy and another titanium marker.

Another cup of tea and biscuits they rustle up from the staff room for me after having had two doses of adrenaline (given to reduce bleeding) I am a bit shaky and then on my way home after three hours in the breast unit.

Apparently I was a model patient as I just got on with it but now I am home it is sinking in that this could change things a lot if two different areas, as consultant radiologist said that will really change the management plan. Gulp.

Now have to wait for the big results meeting on 3 Feb. xx

My goodness what a day for.you im sorry you had such a difficult day i cannot imagine how you are feeling. You sound like a very strong determined lady that will help you beat whatever your facing. I truly hope that you get good news on 3rd. Thinking of you. Take care xxxx

Thanks so much [@Janeylou]‍ . How did you get on yesterday? xx

Had my appointment yesterday lump still there but they are happy its just gland tissue. Didnt post as i know your going through such a hard time getting difficult news and i got good news. Take care and i am keeping everything crossed for you for the 3rd xxx

Oh don't hesitate to share good news. I'm really thrilled for you! Good stuff.

Thanks for the support. I'll update next week. Take care xx