Waiting and worrying

Options
HannahRuth
HannahRuth Member Posts: 6
edited July 2017 in Waiting for Test Results

After my first screening mammogram a couple of weeks ago, I was called back in. On Friday, I had additional imaging, an ultrasound, and then a core biopsy. The diagnostic radiologist was "very concerned," which of course makes me very concerned as well.

I am grateful not to have to have waited between each step of diagnosis, especially since I knew I had to be out of town this week. This morning I flew down to visit my mother (currently recovering from minor surgery herself). She is a breast cancer survivor herself--which could be a source of great support were she not so immediately challenged with her own medical issues. I'm sorry to have to be away from my husband during these stressful days, but he texts and calls frequently--and my terrifically supportive 18yo son is with me here at my mother's.

The earliest I could hear is tomorrow, although I gather it is likely to beat least one more day before the results come back. I am hoping for good news but also trying to prepare myself for a more difficult path ahead.

I'm so grateful I stumbled upon this community, which I have been reading through since the moment I found it.




· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • sweetp6217
    sweetp6217 Member Posts: 365
    edited July 2017

    HannahRuth,

    It's wonderful that you have such a supporting family. Please try not to be too worried. In my case, it took two days longer than they quoted. They told me to get an appointment with a Breast Cancer Surgery Doctor (no stress, right?!). I looked her up and found out that she also works with non-cancerous patients. Whew! Luckily, I picked the later day to get in to see her and the results came in that very morning. It was a very informative talk with her, but I had already taken a peek at the ultrasound and 3D mammogram results, so I wasn't too surprised. I had to "ask" for the earlier results while I was waiting for the biopsy results.

    I guess try to get some things done that perhaps have been put off or delayed, that is if your results take longer. But, what do I know? Hugs.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • justbeatgeno
    justbeatgeno Member Posts: 36
    edited July 2017

    Good morning, HannahRuth,

    Waiting is tough, but if it helps at all, I'm right here with you. My first mammo ever was on Thursday, u/s right after, biopsy the next morning. It's great your mom is a survivor and can be a supportive voice for you when/if you need one. My initial reports show me at a Bi Rads 5, so 95% chance of cancer. I almost don't want to wait for biopsy results, I just want to get it out all ready. But, I guess this is part of the process. Hang in there. I do find posting/reading here helpful. I like that I can start to prepare for next steps.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • mommakat
    mommakat Member Posts: 147
    edited July 2017

    the waiting is hard Hannah Ruth. Hang in there. I got my initial CNB results after 4 days but am still in limbo with some follow up things. My surgeon appointment isn't until 8/10, so I have for ever to wait and wonder. But. One thing I try to focus on: worrying now is only going to use up time and energy I could spend on something else. Good luck

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • HannahRuth
    HannahRuth Member Posts: 6
    edited July 2017

    Thank you for the support, everyone. I'm sending my hopes for good news to all waiting.

    I slept much better last night than the previous two since the discomfort has mostly dissipated and my middle-of-the-night panics have calmed down.

    I chose to tell my closest friends what was up--and it helps me feel more grounded. Having a mass hiding in me is enough hidden stuff. I know other folks make very different decisions and I see why, but I decided to tell a few folks who I knew I 'd want to share difficult news with and also celebrate good news with if I am lucky enough to get it.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • HannahRuth
    HannahRuth Member Posts: 6
    edited July 2017

    The first part of my biopsy results came back positive for invasive ductal carcinoma. Info on hormone receptivity, staging, etc won't be in for a few days--and I won't be given that info until my appointment with the team (which is getting scheduled now). Deep breaths...

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • mommakat
    mommakat Member Posts: 147
    edited July 2017

    i'm so sorry to read this Hannah! Best of luck to you and I will keep you in my prayers xo

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Susug
    Susug Member Posts: 193
    edited July 2017

    Hannah - I'm so sorry tohere this.... the breathing will get better just not today. Hugs Susu

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • HannahRuth
    HannahRuth Member Posts: 6
    edited July 2017

    I am so grateful I found this supportive list so early on my journey! Thank you all.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • jenny153
    jenny153 Member Posts: 21
    edited July 2017

    Hang on in there Hannah Ruth. For me, this part was the hardest. As soon as you have a treatment plan in place, things will get a little easier and that panicky feeling subsides. In the meantime, take time out for yourself and get as much support from loved ones around you.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • HannahRuth
    HannahRuth Member Posts: 6
    edited July 2017

    I got a call today from a geneticist who works with the team to which I have been assigned for my first consult on Monday. She reports that the tumor is triple negative and suggested that I consider genetic counseling. Boo. I won't hear about grade until the the team meeting. I'm feeling overwhelmed right now, more frightened than before. Aargh.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MTwoman
    MTwoman Member Posts: 2,704
    edited July 2017

    HannahRuth, there is a Triple Negative forum that might provide some helpful information as well as connect you to women who've gone through treatment (to ask questions) and some who are just starting (for support). I'm sorry you're feeling so overwhelmed and frightened. This time in your journey, when you're collecting a lot more information, but unable to start actual treatment, is the absolute worst. Please do think about connecting to some TN ladies so you can get our questions ready for your team meeting. Once the team is in place and treatment plan decided, most women start to feel more empowered. Sending you warm thoughts and gentle ((hugs))

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories