Newly Diagnosed... mostly overwhelmed
Hi. My name is Amy and I was diagnosed 9 days ago. There was no lump. I just went to my regular screening and they called back for another. Then we did a biopsy, I was diagnosed with cancer in my right breast. Then we did an MRI and they think they see two other tumors in my left breast. Still waiting for another biopsy, this time MRI guided. I am also waiting for genetic testing to come back. In the mean time they are starting chemo ( on the 8th). As of now my doctor thinks double mastectomy... But we need the tests to be sure. It is a bit confusing being treated without all of the answers. I am a bit scared of the chemo and can only look at this a little at a time. I am fortunate to have a wonderfully supportive husband.
Comments
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OH I am so sorry you have to have the diagnosis. I just found out on Thursday. I know I am going to have lots of treatment and I don't care what my doc says I do want the double mastectomy but that is just me. I want perky C cups when all is said and done. Good luck with the rest of your tests. I am sorry I can't help that much as I am still weeding through all this myself. I have my large doctor appointment tomorrow and will be having so many more questions then. Good luck. Sorry you had to join this group.
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This is the toughest part, Amy. It does get better. Glad to hear that you have a supportive husband. I've found my relationship with mine has only grown stronger. Take it one day at a time. Chemo is scary until you try it
Then it's just an annoyance for the most part - kind of like the house guest who leaves the TV on loud/late, forgets to clean up crumbs, and takes the last swig of the orange juice. You'll read about bad experiences, but fortunately they don't happen as often as you may imagine. Each person is so different and each chemo responds differently. One day at a time. You can do this. You've come to a great place with people who've got a lot more experience under their belts than I do - learn from them. I'm only 8 weeks into being diagnosed and have a sense of peace and determination that I never would have imagined I could have at this point. Ask questions, vent, and be good to yourself. Hugs! LInda
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Hi Amy, me too! I was just dx'd on 7/29 with IDC, stage 2, and HER/Estrogen positive. I am going through all the same things you are - first, absolute and unrelenting panic and horror, then unending anxiety and fright, sadness and dread. Now though, I feel a beginning budding determination. WAITING is the worst. I have found that if you come here, and ask for help, it's always available. You are not alone.
I have an MRI this week, on both breasts, as I have R breast lump with R lymph mass. They want to see what's on the other side. My surgeon is caring and he said that that treatment has come a very long way, and that bluntly, the next year is going to suck, but that was much better than the near death sentence my GP seemed to give me! and I am encouraged. I will though be doing a double mastectomy with reconstruction and likely chemo soon. that's all I know right now, and like you, am blessed with a wonderful husband of 24 years that is the best thing that ever happened to me. Take care of each other and reach out when you need to.
PS I am on my way to the first onco appt, they just called. I will update you and please please update me. Blessings!
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Keep breathing ladies...... keep breathing.....
I know your feelings all too well. Once you have more facts about your situation through tests and scans and your treatment plan is in place, hopefully those overwhelming and anxiety emotions will calm down a little. Yes, you are on an emotional roller coaster right now when it feels like you hurry up and wait. You are at the fact gathering point which can make one very anxious. The waiting for the test/scan results is tough but keep breathing. Try to keep yourself occupied with reading magazines, watching mindless tv, taking walks, etc. It helps. If you find yourself having difficulty sleeping or feeling overly anxious, do not hesitate to ask your doctors for some anti-anxiety medication. It's okay. Please do yourself a very big favor...... DO NOT USE DR. GOGGLE as your source for information. Dr. Google may provide inaccurate information, out of date information and the information may not even pertain to your situation. Stick to reliable information sources like the main BCO website pages. There is no need to scare yourself with inapplicable information.
Just remember you are not alone and there are many who have traveled this way before you..... ready to give you support and comfort and a little help alone the way. Sending many hugs and lots of positive calming and healing thoughts and energy. Keep us posted here.
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