Diagnosed on 3/23/2016

Good morning WenchLori,

The breast surgeon and the plastic surgeon doing the surgery at the same time is quite normal for people who know they want reconstruction. Some people choose no reconstruction and others wait, take their time to decide and may have it later in a separate procedure. THE DECISION IS YOURS.

The hospital I had my surgery at was a bit busy and I waited almost a month for my surgery date, which was comfortable for me. You can certainly ask the person who scheduled you if there are any other dates available.

I found having time to wrap my head around everything was useful - a month was a little more time than I needed.

And I hate to say this but it has helped me, now is a perfectly legitimate time in your life for the option of anti-anxiety medication. If that might be an option for you just give one of your doctors a call. THE DECISION IS YOURS.

We're here for you,

cb

Hi Lori - I just stumbled across your post. I have a diagnosis like yours: IDC, ER+, PR+, HER2- and yes those are favorable results. My tumor was discovered in a routine mammogram in mid-January. Post-surgery, I've been taking my time to gather information before embarking on treatment and I do feel I have time to do my due diligence since the cancer has been removed from my breast. I had a straightforward lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy (nodes were clear) in February and healed very well. Because my pathology report showed that Lymphovascular Invasion was present, I decided to do the Oncotest DX test to help with my decision regarding adding chemotherapy to my treatment plan and my results should be in next week and at that time I'll be meeting with my medical oncologist to discuss treatment.

What I wanted to say to you is that I have not had a "breakdown" at any time either - little waves of sadness and disappointment, and occasionally resentment, that I'm having to deal with this unexpected twist in my life, but not for a second have I worried that I'm going to die which is why I'm not overcome with emotion, I guess. Everyone, from doctors to friends, keep saying "You're so calm" - that's just my nature. My husband's and my matter of fact demeanor has helped to keep our teenage children calm as well - they take their cues from us - as well as the handful of people with whom I've shared my diagnosis. I've kept my circle small until I know if I'm going to have chemotherapy or not. Not everyone with a cancer diagnosis reacts the same way - I'm just relaying my experience. Personally, I see this diagnosis as a problem that needs to be fixed and I'll move on with my life when treatment concludes. So, you may not have a breakdown however, if you do fall apart one day, that's okay and it wouldn't be unusual -- you're allowed! Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a surprise when you're otherwise healthy! Educate yourself - knowledge is power - and visit various forums where you'll get lots of support from other women going through the same thing. It's a great place to go for support. If you do find you need help coping at some point, I'm sure your medical team will help you with anxiety medication or suggest a support group. Some people also find meditation and even yoga really helpful, as did a friend of mine when she was diagnosed with BC. Good luck!

Lori, maybe you're not freaking out because you don't quite know what you're in for yet? When I had my follow up mammo, US, and then biopsy I was definitely stunned, but I didn't lose it per se. It was kind of hard not to lose it because I was surrounded by nurses and social worker who were holding my hands and asking if they could call someone for me. Lol, I was trying to decide whether I should go to work or go home. At that time a dear friend of mine was dying from BC, so I was very familiar with what could happen. You may have a breakdown a some point, just take it as it comes

grazy....yes, we have similar minds....and with respect to telling others, I've never told more than a handful of family and friends about my diagnosis. And, I made it my family's business to never tell my mom who is now almost 91! I wish you well too with your active treatment.

Lori....I think your point about having already gone through a medical misfortune has sharpened your emotional ability to confront your recent diagnosis. I wish you well with your treatment!