Test Results Are In!

I have not been on this site for awhile and just found that this thread had been created for those of us with "non-cancer" diagnosis and am distressed to see that someone thinks we should not be on this forum after diagnosis and treatment.

I have been a member of this forum since 2009 when I had my prophylactic bi-lateral mastectomies. Mostly I am on the reconstruction thread. People have been very kind and I like to think that I have been helpful to people.

Someone told me that to undergo a prophylactic mastectomy is sometimes more stressful, emotionally, than for someone with a cancer diagnosis. When it is cancer, yes you have a choice of lumpectomy, mastectomy or just chemotherapy or radiation therapy or sometimes it ends up being everything. While deciding to undergo a prophylactic procedure, there is always that second guessing about should I do this?; will it really turn to cancer or when?. It can be an emotional gamble and many people cannot understand why one would cut off seemingly healthy body parts. I made the decision as I had risk factors and papillomas that were growing and so numerous it was difficult to follow and had had way too many biopsies prior. Pathologists recommended a diagnosis to allow for prophy mast and breast surgeon agreed, but it was my decision to make. I have been at peace with my decision and last year developed a new lump as not all tissue is taken. I was distressed until it was subsequently removed and found to be some scar tissue, but it was painful and large and could have been worse outcome.

I hope those who visit and post here can feel welcomed and that they can ask questions and have a dialogue and feel that people care. It is easier to empathize with those who have to go through far more discomfort than I and I feel fortunate and try to be helpful and understanding to them. My sister-in-law is going through a 2nd round of breast cancer and is facing reconstruction following her chemotherapy which has been successful in shrinking her aggressive tumor.

Don't worry about posting on this board it's all good.  Keep in mind that some of these posts were moved from the "Waiting for Results" board after a few women started acting like others weren't welcome.  The mods made it clear that all women with breast concerns benign or not are.  This board was a further step to give us a place to figure out what is best for us.  

Hi Jen,

You can post anywhere you like.  That issue's been settled.

Waiting is awful, and I think everyone can sympathize with you.  You've been through a lot lately with your breasts....

Has anyone suggested genetic counseling?  With 3 sisters being diagnosed, it seems like it would be beneficial for you.  It will also give you a good idea as to how "high risk" you really are.  It'll provide some additional information to be used in your decision making process.

Good luck with your MRI results.