Recently diagnosed with IBC

Late February 2018, I noticed under my right arm, my lymph nodes seemed swollen. I immediately contacted my GYN. After examining my breasts, my GYN could not find a lump but, noticed my right breast was a bit larger than my left. To be safe, my GYN ordered a ultrasound. The ultrasound displayed my lymph nodes under my right arm were enlarged; mammogram completed same day displayed the same. From there I had various tests; Chest CT scan, 2 needle biopsies, ultrasounds, mammograms and a punch biopsy. The diagnosis was IBC. I was devastated. How could this be? I have 3-day mammograms faithfully each year!

Next step breast surgeon and oncologist. PET Scan ordered and completed. Scan displayed a small spot about the size of a pea on my spine in the neck area. However, my Oncologist stated to be sure IF this was cancer, they could do another biopsy. I elected not have another biopsy. The final diagnosis was Stage IV breast cancer. Again, another devastating diagnosis. Within 4 weeks timeframe, from the beginning of the original pain, I had a final diagnosis.

Received my first Chemo treatment last week. My treatment plan, 5 months of chemo; surgery and 6 weeks of radiation.

I am a strong person but, this has totally turned my world upside down. I am 56 years old, a wife, mother of 3 daughters and 7 grandchildren. I am determined to fight this. My family, friends and employer have been absolutely awesome with support!. I would really love to hear of others who have gone through or are going through this same type of cancer. At times, it is hard trying to keep positive.