Recently diagnosed in Interior British Columbia

lalala

Hello journey companions.  I am recently diagnosed with IDC (x2 tumors; 0.8cm and 0.5 cm), various DCIS with hyperplasia, firocystic changes & intraductal papillomas, sentinel node tumor (1.5 cm).  Had lumpectomy and node surgey Jan 28th and just rec'd pathology report.  Dr. is conferring with BC Cancer as to whether more surgery (at least 1 margin is close) to remove more tissue and more nodes OR straight to radiation for both breast and nodes. I am 62, living in Trail, working in Castlegar, and will have to go to Kelowna for radiation.  Questions are:  has anyone stayed at the lodge in Kelowna while undergoing rad?  My TNP scores on path report are pT1b, pN1a, pM n/a but the report diagnoses the node as "metastatic" with extracapsular invansion identified - this is the part that is un-nerving.  Dr. said since there is now confirmed spread to nodes, that chemo will also be necessary.  Also, has anyone had to deal with Employment Insurance people since I will be unable to work while in Kelowna for rad .. is it worth applying for?

ziggypop

Hi lalala,

I am really sorry that you find yourself with the need to be on this board and at the same time glad that you have found this site.  I can not answer your questions but I'm sure there are some Canadian sisters who will be along shortly. 

I did want to mention one thing - you wrote "but the report diagnoses the node as "metastatic" with extracapsular invasion identified - this is the part that is un-nerving" - The word 'metastatic' is scary to everybody - what this is saying that you have LOCAL mets to at least one lymph node - that can be really confusing because it does NOT mean that you have stage 4 cancer where the cancer has metastasized to distal locations in your body. So - important, yes, but don't take the word 'metastasis'  to mean more than it does in this instance.

((hugs))

lalala

Thank you ziggypop!   I have been reading lots of posts on various issues and am so glad I've found this wonderful resource and that we're all sharing our individual stories.  This is what women have been doing forever - passing our collective knowledge along, providing advice and support along the way.   I'm anxious for the next steps to start; whether more surgery, radiation or chemo as the waiting between each occurrence seems to take forever and keeps me on the up/down coaster as far as my emotions are concerned.  One minute I'm a lscared, crying ittle girl (I'm 62) needing a mother's assurance and the next I'm a fierce take-no-prisoners warrior.  Where are you along your path?

Gardengirl66

hi lalala, sorry that you have joined us, but the advice found throughout this site is great. It has helped me so much. Ziggypop is correct at what she is telling you, I also after surgery , found out I had a dot that was positive in the first node. The image I used was I had a foreign object inside me ( like a bullet ) , and will need treatment for possible shrapnel . I was borderline needing chemo, but chose it, one node positive was enough for me, I am 48 years old with strong hormones .I have just finished my first round of chemo, seven days ago. Watched my son play soccer today and did a little laundry. 

The worst part so far was the waiting and scheduling of all the tests and more waiting. It is a roller coaster ride of emotions.... But I am feeling ok with all the decisions and what is happening to me. 

I would apply for the employment insurance just incase. Is there any one you can get more info/advice from at the cancer clinic, doctor,oncologist, office.

Keep us posted on how you are doing, sending hugs your way!

notsostepfordwife

Hi, sorry we had to meet like this. I live in Warfield and this is my second go round with chemo and rads. I went to Kelowna the first time and stayed in the Lodge. It was great being on my own for the six weeks of treatment and not having to worry about driving and parking. I have had to go back to Kelowna this time but have stayed in a hotel because it was only two nights. Also, if you go to the cancer center (by Gerricks) they have information on disability. I am currently trying to sort it out as well and will let you know if I find out anything helpful.

lalala

Thank you so much ladies.  I was 1 month post surgery on Feb 28th and had my appointment with Doc Scotland (the local med onc).  He as outlined a chemo scheduled for me based on Stage II provided that my blood work, bone scan & chest xtray (blood done yesterday and scan/xray getting done on Monday) don't come up with anything else.  My biggest fear right now is something turning up in tests putting me into Stage IV.  Kelowan Cancer Clinic called me yesterday wanting to schedule initial rad meeting in Kelowna so I'll schedule that as soon as these test results come in and I can meet with Scotland on whether to start with the chemo, the rad or do both together.  Once all these unknowns are known, I can figure out whether I can continue to work through all this, even if part-time.  I am 63 so I'm also considerng applying for my CPP now before my income level goes down which would reduce my CPP if I take it later ---- so much in the financial end of things to consider since I am my sole support.  How are you ladies doing?  I have found great posts of getting ready for chemo so I'm prepared for all that.  One of my daugthers is a nurse so I'll have lots of help there too.