Scared (again)

MimiDPL

Scared (again)

MimiDPL

I was diagnosed with minimally invasive DCIS 5 years ago, had a mastectomy after 2 lumpectomies failed to yield clear margins.  I had Hodgkins lymphoma 30 years ago, and it is thought that the radiation then contributed to the DCIS now.  So... no further treatments.  In 2009, Atypical Lobular hyperplasia was found in the other breast, and I had a second mastectomy as preventative.  Both mastectomies were followed by immediate reconstructive surgeries.  I just had my 5 year checkup from my oncologist, and everything was fine.  Then a week ago I found a painful hard spot on the original breast.  I agonized for about a week, then saw my internist who thinks further investigation is needed.  He is setting up an appointment with the surgeon for his opinion.  I can't believe this!  I thought I was done! It still could be something other than cancer, but I am terrified.  I need to talk, but I don't want anyone else playing the waiting game.  Reading the posts here make me feel like I have friends to talk to.  So many brave, strong women, and such a shame all of you have to be so brave and strong.  Anyway, thanks for listening.

dsj

If you had DCIS 5 years ago, then you did not have invasive cancer (minimal or otherwise).  DCIS, by definition, is non-invasive.   I know it's agony to wait, but I think given that you have had two mastectomies, the odds are really in your favor   Plus, I don't think most breast cancers present as sudden hard painful lumps.  So sorry you're going through this. 

MimiDPL

Thanks for the comfort; it's always hurry up and wait with medical stuff.  Since I have didn't have a lump with the previous cancer, I have no idea what it would feel like.  The breast is lumpy and painful anyway from the surgeries and reconstruction.  There is a huge difference between my two reconstructions since two different surgeons did them.  I have pain and swelling in the right one where the cancer was found and they took the sentinal lymph node cluster.  No one has given me an answer to that one.  Anyone else have this?  This board is a great source for information, and it is wonderful to have all of you to talk to!