moms just been diagnosed

queeny209

Hi,

My name is Lexy and my mom has recently been diagnosed with stage 1 idc that is HER+. Tomorrow we are meeting with a team of oncologists and then Friday she is having her lumpectomy. The doctor also told her that she will need chemo and radiation afterward. We are an extremely close family, just me, mom, dad, and my brother. My dad is extrememly emotional about it, and my brother has been at times but can be strong. However, my mom seems to only feel comfortable confiding in me about her inner fears. We are constantly hugging and I console her. I don't let her see me cry. I cry when everyone has gone to sleep. I try to tell her that shes a strong woman, that she's healthy, its just this stupid cancer tumor thats unhealthy. i tell her she's beautiful. But she is still just really scared that she is going to die and that she is going to look and feel hellish during the chemo. Does anyone have any advice? Other things i could tell her? Are her chances at being okay good? I'm young myself, and the thought of losing my mom makes me lose it completely.. 

mdg

I am so sorry your mom has been diagnosed. I am glad you came to this site though.  You will find lots of support, encouragement and good information here.  I can tell you that I did chemo and I was NOT sick.  I had some tired days, but I never took one pill for nausea because I didn't have any.  I exercised 5 days a week through all of chemo.  Many people do OK with chemo.  It has changed a lot over the years.  Your mom's fears are normal....it is very scary, especially at the very beginning before you know your complete diagnosis and start treatment.  The best you can do is listen to your mom and let her express her fears.  There are many resources that may help both of you....your local cancer center may have a support group for your mom or for caregivers that may help you connect with others that can relate to your situation.  I found great support here so you both may find that here too. I want to wish you good luck for your mom.  I will pray for her tonight.  Hugs!!

KANSAS65

qeeny209, You tell your mom to have a positive attitude and she can beat this. Your positive attitude and support will get her through this. Its a shock and things move fast after dx. We went through a whole summer of surgeries and finally we beat it. I think your mom has got a good chance to beat this at this stage. There is a lot of good info here on this great forum, and your not alone. Best wishes to you and your family.