Diagnosed and I didn't need this....not at all...

Lori1967

Hi, my name is Lori, I am 47 years old and I have unfortunately just joined today  

Two weeks ago I scratched my breast, my nails haven't been this short in a very long time, when I scratched I felt something odd. I don't normally do breast exams, I am very large breasted (G) with cysts and thickening, so I've never been able to tell healthy from unhealthy.  But this concerned me, my left breast had something there, not round, but large and almost felt like an overcooked hamburger patty in there, the right side wasn't the same.

I made an app't with my Dr., who felt something as well and sent me for a mammogram and ultrasound. Both of these tests came back inconclusvie. I saw the image, and it just looked cloudy in that area. I had had a mammo in 2008 (can't remember why now) and the same cloudiness was there, but nothing was done about it. So I was sent for a biopsy.

The test came back positive for Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. I am trying to stay positive, I really am. But on the same day, my younger brother who has been battling 4th stage meditastic pleomorphic sarcoma was told he was now entering palliative care and pain management....he may have 2-3 months. Telling my Mom about by diagnosis was probably one of the hardest things I had to do this week. Two of her children now have cancer, there is no one else in our family who has ever had it, no one that we even knew, we are all in a fog right now.

Moderators

Lori, we're so sorry to hear of your diagnosis. We know things can be cloudy and confusing at the beginning. We hate that you have to be here, but really glad you found us! You'll find our community a wonderful source of support, knowledge, encouragement, and advice. We know you'll be hearing shortly from other members who can help!

In the meantime, to help understand your diagnosis, you may want to check out the main Breastcancer.org site's section on IDC - Invasive Ductal Carcinoma for information about how it's treated and more.

We hope this helps!!

--The Mods

linzer

Lori, So sorry that you have to be here and to have it be such a difficult time for your family given your brother's diagnosis. I found it so hard to tell my mother too, but our circumstances were nothing like yours. You've found a great site for support and information. As the days unfold, and you get your treatment plan, I think you'll find that you come to grips with your situation a bit. At least that's how it worked for me, but everyone is different. I have good days and bad days emotionally but overall I'm not as anxious and freaked out as I was at first. I hope that you find the same thing happens to you.

Nancy2581

Lori, I am so sorry to learn of your diagnosis along with your brother.  I wish I could reach out and give you a big hug.  I hope in the days ahead you get a treatment plan in order for you.  I agree with linzer the beginning of this journey is the absolute worst because you don't know the whole picture yet.  As you find out more it gets a little easier, but you will have good days and not so good days.

I'm sorry you have to join this group - hugs to you and your brother and especially your sweet mom.

Nancy

SpecialK

Lori - so sorry to hear of your diagnosis on top of your brother's cancer and recent news of the need to move to palliative care.  My brother, my only sibling, was diagnosed with stage IV bile duct cancer in 2008, and I was diagnosed 18 months later, so I fully understand where your head is right now.  You are worried about your family, and burdening them with this news, and scared for your brother and for yourself.  It is a lot to deal with, and for your family and friends as well.  I have no words of advice to offer other than to take this one day at a time - don't look back or too far ahead - and that you will get through this and are most likely stronger than you think.  Sending you a hug and prayers.