Mom was just diagnosed.

Options
MelanieBC
MelanieBC Member Posts: 74
edited August 2015 in Just Diagnosed

Hello all, I am new to the group and wish I didn't have to be.

My mother was diagnosed today with Stage 2 breast cancer. She has a radical modified mastectomy scheduled for September 11, 2015 and then chemotherapy to follow.

Her doctor has told her that he wants a bone and CT scan first to make sure it hasn't spread anywhere but feels that it hasn't. Is this standard procedure prior to surgery or after diagnosis?

I don't know how to help or support her. I live with her so this situation has engulfed my life for the past few weeks and she isn't an optisimist. I don't want cancer to define her as a person. I just want her to get better and be the person she has always been.

Any advice? I am so scared.

Melanie

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited August 2015

    Welcome to our community Melanie, We are sorry to hear about your mom. Here is a link to information on our site about Tests and Screening. You also may want to check out the forum for caregivers for more tips on how to support your mom. Try to take one day at a time and not get to far ahead of yourself. We know that that is easier said than done. There are many here who have shared experiences and go offer you support. Stay connected here and keep us posted. The Mods

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • koshka1
    koshka1 Member Posts: 678
    edited August 2015

    Hugs Melanie,

    Sorry to hear about your Mom and I am glad that you are here for her.

    It is normal to do scans with certain size tumours...this is a standard practice.

    If you go to appointments with your Mom, take a list of questions with you that you need answered.

    This is the best way.

    Oncologists and surgeons are really good about this.

    As well, reach out when you need.

    Kosh

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • msphil
    msphil Member Posts: 1,536
    edited August 2015

    hello sweetie, sorry bout mom but here u will get info she needs, we have gone, n goin thru what u mom is, i too had bone scan, i was diagnosed while preparing for my 2nd marriage, n God sent me my wonderful hubby, i am now a 21yr Survivor(Praise God) so once treatment plans are in place things wont be soooo overwhelming. msphil(idc,stage 2, Lmast, total radical,0-3 nodes,chemo, rads n 5yrs on tamoxifen) married 21yrs also

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • ElaineTherese
    ElaineTherese Member Posts: 3,328
    edited August 2015

    Hi!

    I got an MRI and PET scan after my diagnosis; the PET scan was to see whether or not the cancer spread. If the cancer has spread, some doctors don't recommend surgery and just focus on reducing the tumors through treatment.

    You say your Mom is not optimistic about her future; it may help if she gets some meds for anxiety and/or depression. Also, it may help if you can keep her "busy" so she doesn't dwell too much on cancer. I know that working has helped me to focus on something besides my health situation. Best wishes to you and your Mom!

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories