DX 5/8 and my head is spinning

dorthi

DX 5/8 and my head is spinning

dorthi

I was diagnosed May 8th with stage II breast cancer.  Even when they had told me I needed a biopsy I didn't even consider it would come back malignant.  It's like I'm in a dream I can't wake up from.  Well, reality is now hitting after speaking with so many doctors.  After the dx they did a MRI and ultra sound on both breasts.  They found 2 more solid masses on my right and 2 more on my left along with lymph nodes that all need to be biopsied.  I go in on Monday to get that all done.  They've tested me for the BRCA1 & 2 gene and I'm still waiting on those results.  Cancer runs in my family.  My surgeon (along with all the other specialists) are telling me I need a bilateral mastectomy.  I just spoke with the plastic surgeon yesterday regarding reconstruction. 

I'm so glad I found this forum.  My best friend was dx a few days before me with BC as well.  Same breast.  We have each other, however neither one of us really knows what's going on.

I lost my father on April 8th and moved in with my mother to be her sole caregiver since she is disabled and can't function on her own.  Then a month later I get dx with BC.  I'm really stressing about recovery and also being able to take care of her. 

It's been 3 weeks since my dx and they still have not taken the malignant tumor out of my left breast.  Is this normal?  My friend had hers taken out right away. 

Sorry for babbling but I have so many questions and am terrified.  My family/friends are all shocked by my positive attitude but I'm hiding inside just how scared I am.  Maybe getting to know others who are going through this will help.  I don't want any of my loved ones to know how I'm truly feeling.

Anyway, thanks for listening.  I'm going to continue to read this forum through my entire journey through this.

~Dorothy

Redheaded1

Dorothy--I am so sorry you hare having to deal with this. I can relate somewhat to how you feel.  I was diagnosed 1/30/14.  My surgery wasn't until Feb.  I also provide care to my 86 year old father, although he insists on attempting to live independently.  I did convince him to have a HomeHealth provider come half days and that has given me peace of mind and time to focus on my own health.  The way they explained it to me, the cancer has been there for years--so perhaps time isn't of the essence. Getting a good treatment plan In place is goal one.  You will find these boards a good place to get information, as well as meet people who are going thru the same things as you.   These discussion boards nd the people you will meet here helped keep me sane and positive.  It will do the same for you.

You got this!  Deep inside you is the strength to do this.  Keep posting so we know how you are doing.

grammakathy

dorothy - it is overwhelming to be hit with so much at once.  I was diagnosed in Sept 2013 and had surgery on Oct 25.  Reality didn't hit me until after my surgery.  My tumor was actually seen in my mammogram in May 2012 but was dismissed as not a problem.  After my diagnosis, I took things one appt at a time, and made decisions as I gained more information from tests and doctor.  Try not to jump ahead because you can make yourself crazy.  I made decisions and then didn't second guess myself.  I went with what I decided to do and have no regrets.  Vent all you want on this site because it is safe.  We have been there and get it.  Hugs!

LovebeingNana

Hi Dorothy…So sorry you find yourself here but you are not alone. I was diagnosed on February 11, 2014 and my surgery was March 11, 2014 exactly a month later. I asked my Breast surgeon and my oncologist about the wait and they both said it would not change the outcome. But very day before it was removed was nerve wracking so I know how you feel. It does get easier as you move along in treatment. Hugs to you. 

dorthi

Thank you guys! This site is amazing. And after reading so many stories I no longer feel alone and a part of my stress has been lifted. I think all doctors should tell their cancer patients about this site. 

dorthi

I've tried to keep a positive attitude but have been dx with a benign tumor in my right breast and just 2 days ago dx with a benign tumor on my uterus. This is all in addition to my stage II cancer they found in my left breast. Can this really all just be coincidence? I'm starting to feel like maybe it's everywhere! Should I be concerned? I have not had ANY surgeries scheduled and have no idea where I stand right now. Maybe I just need someone to just tell me this is all normal and I'll be fine. 

Holeinone

dorthi, 

Has your surgeon discussed your options? Have you decided on a mastectomy or lumpectomy ? I would think by now they would of gotten you on the schedule for surgery. I had a biopsy and 7 days later a lumpectomy. I did not have a MRI. 

Ridley

dorthi - I waited about 2 months between diagnosis and first surgery.  I had lots of diagnostic tests in between which is what took the time.  

Since you know you need a bilat mast, I encourage you to see a plastic surgeon to understand all of your options regarding recon, even if you can't do it immediately or don't ever want to do it. 

I found the time between diagnosis and having a final treatment plan to be the worst.  My anxiety was sky high.  Ask for help if you need it ( eg Ativan or seeing a therapist). 

Take care of yourself,

Ridley

dorthi

I'm definitely having a bilateral mastectomy. I've spoken with 1 PS about my recon options. My BS wanted me to get a second opinion so have me another name but they can't get me in for a consult until Aug 22nd.  Yes, anxiety is beyond horrible. My obgyn gave me a script for xanax but it didn't help. I think it's the waiting that is the worst. But I'll take it day by day and pray my doctors know what they are doing. Thanks guys for the feedback 

april485

Hi Dorthi,

So sorry you find yourself here but as others told you, once you have your plan, it will get a little easier. A friend of mine used to live in Scottsdale and used Dr. Richard Brown for her reconstruction and highly recommends him. She had a bilateral mastectomy several years ago and he did her breasts and she really liked him. Not sure if he is one of the surgeons recommended to you, but wanted to throw that out there. I had lumpectomy so I don't have first hand experience with mastectomy but thought I would let you know about him since she spoke so highly of him. Best to you and hang in there! HUGS!

dorthi

Oh wow, thank you so much April! I will most definitely call his office on Monday and see if I can set up a consult. No, he wasn't recommended to me but a recommendation from someone that has actually used him is just as good if not better in my book. Would it be possible for you to give your friend my email address? I'll PM you. Thanks again for letting me know. 

Islandmama2

Hi Dorothy

I saw my GP on April 30 about my lump. I had my imaging, core bx, surgeon consult and surgery by May 21. But like others have said, it has likely been there for years. I know it doesn't change the fact that you want it out! And like yesterday! 

I do know the anxiety. I was highly anxious about waiting for the results. How big was it? What type? Has it spread? Add the anxiety of having surgery itself. It is all pretty awful. 

I can honestly say that you WILL feel better after you see the surgeon and you find out what will happen next. All the ladies here told me that I would too. At the time I didn't believe them!! LOL but it has gotten easier as I have found out more info and the next steps in my treatment are happening soon. 

You will feel better and you will get through this...