Recently diagnosed with Grade 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. WTF ???? !!!!!!
I feel strongly to broadcast my story as this was undetectable by manual self screening (no palpable lump or any texture change). Even though there was a history of Breast Cancer in my family I was confident that I would manually flag any negative changes with self breast exam on regular basis.
After being invited for my first ever mammogram I was recalled for a second mammogram with an expectation of further diagnostic tests. Shock Horror !!!!! No news anyone wishes to receive (especially with no palpable lumps or physical or visible changes).
Further mammograms with greater compression of breasts ensued (lets face it, not the best way to spend a Wednesday morning). Straight after I was invited for a Biopsy which was extremely efficient and painless with the best ever group of medical professionals.
I was invited back to see the Radiologist who (bless her) confirmed it as grade 2 cancer invasive ductal carcinoma. The team of Nurses and Specialists were absolutely amazing and I took it on the chin and insisted on understanding ALL the facts so I could stay ahead and at least be on the same page of the experts to ensure (or believe) I was in control of my own path of diagnosis and treatment.
I underwent my pre-op assessment today and am scheduled for lumpectomy 18th December as out patient with confirmed follow up treatment path to follow post histology exam.
Funny thing is, when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer I was 29, every day since then I have woken up with the fear and possibility that I would develop this unwelcome...disgusting....pain in the *** disease which prompted me to check sometimes everyday for lumps, bumps, breast abnormalities and over the course of 20 years, nothing.
MAMMOGRAM....this is what saved me...Hopefully !!!!!! When it comes to Cancer we cannot be complacent. More often than not we must battle with our own insecurities to face adversity.....my view is, Investigate it; Review it; Accept it; KICK ITS *** !!!!!!!!!
