Diagnosed today...

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KarinaQ
KarinaQ Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
Hello, I wanted to introduce myself. My name is Karina, I am an unemployed elementary school teacher. I have no kids or pets. I do have a very loving family and some amazing friends. I am 33 years old and I was just diagnosed with BC. I am not sure what to feel right now...I know I have to be strong and fight this but I am scared and confused because I do not know anyone that has gone through this. I hope you can share what to expect and what you have gone through so I can learn about this. One of the things that really upsets me is that I am young and pretty healthy. I eat well and I excersise. Anyway, once I get over the shock I hope to be a volunteer and share my experiences and help other women who might be in the same boat as I am right now. I know that this can only make me stronger and that life goes on. In fact, since my diagnosis I feel like nothing matters right now (except for my health) and that no matter what I am not going to worry about the little things. I already feel positive and I am ready to fight and win this battle! Thank you for listening to me and for any support that you can give me. I wish to do the same for others soon. Karina
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Comments

  • mizcaldwell
    mizcaldwell Member Posts: 143
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    Great Attitude, Karina
    I'm sorry you have to be here - it's the site no one wants to have to find, but are glad they did find it once they have a reason to. Being scared and confused is a natural result of a cancer diagnosis. Sit back, breathe and scroll through the posts here. You will get info and that will help.

    What point in the process are you? You said you were diagnosed - but there are many kinds of breast cancer, with many different treatment plans and therapies. Most likely you have had a biopsy - but have you gone any further. If you share more details of your situation, people with the same or similar diagnoses can respond and give you the benefit of their experience. You can also scan back through some of the older posts - especially those written by people saying they are new - and you will get lots of info there.

    I really congratulate you on your attitude of wanting to help people. You will find that there are women of all ages and profiles here on the site - many even younger than you. Breast cancer doesn't seem to be a respecter of youth or healthy lifestyle. It attacks one and all, it seems.

    Good luck and God bless!

    Lori
  • Dawne.Hope
    Dawne.Hope Member Posts: 823
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    Hi Karina,
    I'm sorry you've just been diagnosed, but welcome to the boards. I've found much encouragement here. I'm 39 and was diagnosed in August. Like you, I'm active, thin, thought I was healthy. What kind of cancer do you have, what stage? Have you had surgery yet? chemo? I didn't have insurance when I was diagnosed and not only was overwhelmed with the diagnosis, but also overwhelmed with the financial strain. I don't know if that is going to be a problem, but know that I've been absolutely amazed at all the resources out there. God will provide.

    Hang in there, Karina. One of the things that was most shocking to me when I found these boards was at all the YOUNG women out there who are affected. I knew a lot of older women, but not young. You're not alone in the fight. Hang out here, read, post when you can, and find strength in the mighty warriors who have gone through the battle and come out STRONG.

    take care,
    dh
  • marywest
    marywest Member Posts: 132
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    Bless your heart
    Being told you have breast cancer is probably one of the most shocking words to hear. When I heard those words I froze. I am grateful that i was healthy also and had God on my side to face any challenges. Have they told you if your having a lumpectomy, chemo etc? Once you let me, (us) know it will really be helpful to give you more understanding and support in that area. You have a beautiful heart and great determination. Its ok to be scared and confused that will go away the more you learn and understand. I am so thankful for the treatments that are available to get rid of cancer. Again let me know what kind of treatments they have planned for you. You will be loved and supported throughout all of this, we will walk hand in hand with you. The little things in life doesn't matter right now, you are the most important, its easier said than done, but try to remain at peace as much as possible, your going to be just fine and you will win. You are in my prayers, and I will be thanking God for comforting you, supplying every need you have, bringing people into your life who will be a blessing. I suggest you dont' go on the internet and look up everything on cancer, so much of it is full of fear. The most important thing is to get all your questions answered and focus on this being something temporary in your life. And yes you will have so much more to give and help others, but right now, your number one. I will be waiting for your posts to find out more about your treatments. God bless you sweetie, Mary
  • MCJ
    MCJ Member Posts: 59
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    you sound like you are
    you sound like you are thinking straight or at least as straight as one can be after a bus has landed on them, when my wife was first diagnosed she did not want to tell a soul, that was rough because I thought it would be better to talk to someone that was through it, what she really wanted to was to be sure what stage she was at before we told the family, she was also careful what she ate, worked out, and as far as not knowing anyone with bc you will be surprised as to how many women you know that had it,
    I wish you all the luck and a healthy recovery
    get angry, be strong, and kick it in the butt
    Jerry
  • ppurdin
    ppurdin Member Posts: 1,181
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    Welcome Karina
    you came to the right web sight for support.I don,t know how I would have got through this ordeal without these wonderful people.i was dignosed in July 2009.I have had two surgerys,Chemo and now radiation.It sounds like you have a good attitude.We are all in shock when we first hear those horrid words,breast Cancer.Give yourself time to except it.And you will come out a fighter .I can tell,Keep us posted on how you are doing.Love and Prayers.(Pat).
  • newbiefromcananda
    newbiefromcananda Member Posts: 234
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    hello
    hello karina and welcome...
    you have a good attitude right now and thats good...I am 37 and was diagnosed in oct, I have had 1 chemo treatment (2nd next week) I have just lost my hair and felt like I have been on a rollercoaster ride, I have good days and bad but now mostly good...you will get thru this and you have come to the right place the woam on here are amazing...if you need anything let me know.....:)
    Lisa
  • fauxma
    fauxma Member Posts: 3,577 Member
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    hello
    hello karina and welcome...
    you have a good attitude right now and thats good...I am 37 and was diagnosed in oct, I have had 1 chemo treatment (2nd next week) I have just lost my hair and felt like I have been on a rollercoaster ride, I have good days and bad but now mostly good...you will get thru this and you have come to the right place the woam on here are amazing...if you need anything let me know.....:)
    Lisa

    This is a tough thing to
    This is a tough thing to hear and I think that because the expectation is that young woman don't get breast cancer it is more shocking to hear when you are young. But we have many young woman with breast cancer on board. They and everyone else will be here to help you through this journey no one wants to take. You have a good attitude and that will help you more than you can even know. But if you need to vent, cry, complain, B***h, whatever that is okay too. There is a lot ahead of you, treatment plans, the treatments, surgery etc. so know that there will be ups and downs and that is normal. You will get through this and we will be listening, advising, caring and supporting you every step of the way.
    Stef
  • sausageroll
    sausageroll Member Posts: 415
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    fauxma said:

    This is a tough thing to
    This is a tough thing to hear and I think that because the expectation is that young woman don't get breast cancer it is more shocking to hear when you are young. But we have many young woman with breast cancer on board. They and everyone else will be here to help you through this journey no one wants to take. You have a good attitude and that will help you more than you can even know. But if you need to vent, cry, complain, B***h, whatever that is okay too. There is a lot ahead of you, treatment plans, the treatments, surgery etc. so know that there will be ups and downs and that is normal. You will get through this and we will be listening, advising, caring and supporting you every step of the way.
    Stef

    We're here!
    Welcome to our family. You will have many ups and downs over the next few months...yes there are ups too! You will meet many wonderful people and get to know yourself really well. We can't diagnose or treat, but we are here for you. Friends and family do not always understand no matter how well meaning they are....but you can always mouth off to us.
    The fact that you are healthy is an enourmous plus. Talk soon.
  • jbug
    jbug Member Posts: 285
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    Hi Karina
    Sorry to have to welcome you to the site, but there are so many on here that can help you thru the next stages! I'm 45, have had a lumpectomy and have finished 5 of 30 radiation treatments. Take your time to absorb the information...there are a few strings on the site from other "newbies", that may be helpful along w/posts by other bc sisters. You'll find survivors that have been on the site a long time!

    I have only been on the site since middle of Nov, but have found the women (and men) to be a great source of comfort. I have found other postings that so described my feelings, that I knew I wasn't alone in my journey. You are NOT alone!

    Let us know where you are in your diagnositic/treatment process...God Bless!

    Julie
  • Alexis F
    Alexis F Member Posts: 3,598
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    jbug said:

    Hi Karina
    Sorry to have to welcome you to the site, but there are so many on here that can help you thru the next stages! I'm 45, have had a lumpectomy and have finished 5 of 30 radiation treatments. Take your time to absorb the information...there are a few strings on the site from other "newbies", that may be helpful along w/posts by other bc sisters. You'll find survivors that have been on the site a long time!

    I have only been on the site since middle of Nov, but have found the women (and men) to be a great source of comfort. I have found other postings that so described my feelings, that I knew I wasn't alone in my journey. You are NOT alone!

    Let us know where you are in your diagnositic/treatment process...God Bless!

    Julie

    Hey Karina and welcome.
    Hey Karina and welcome. Keep a positive attitude! We are in this with you!

    Lex♥
  • Angie2U
    Angie2U Member Posts: 2,991
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    hello
    hello karina and welcome...
    you have a good attitude right now and thats good...I am 37 and was diagnosed in oct, I have had 1 chemo treatment (2nd next week) I have just lost my hair and felt like I have been on a rollercoaster ride, I have good days and bad but now mostly good...you will get thru this and you have come to the right place the woam on here are amazing...if you need anything let me know.....:)
    Lisa

    Hi and welcome Karina. You
    Hi and welcome Karina. You do have a great attitude and that is what you need to fight the beast. Keep us updated on your treatment and how you are feeling.

    Angie
  • roseann4
    roseann4 Member Posts: 992 Member
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    So sorry about your diagnosis.
    Hi Karina,

    If you were just diagnosed, they probably haven't given you the details of what to expect. They may have ordered other tests like a CAT Scan, MRI, and Bone Scan. If so, that is standard for most women after diagnosis. They need those tests to clarify the plan of treatment. I think the most difficult time is before we know the details. You need your rest so if you have trouble sleeping or getting through the day, ask you doctor for some mediction to address that. You won't need it forever.

    There is great hope with breast cancer so keep that in mind. Our minds can really go off on worst case scenerios that are unlikely to happen to you.

    Please stay in touch.

    Roseann
  • Sam726
    Sam726 Member Posts: 233
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    Hi Karina
    Hey girl...Im so sorry to hear your news! I too am 33 and was just diagnosed 4 months ago. Ive been going thru chemo and almost done. I am glad you found this site! Girls on here have helped me thru a lot and they know everything you need to know about BC. They are wonderful and always have words of hope and encouragement. I know you dont want to be here, but glad you found us! We are here for you. I read your post and your thoughs are almost identical to how mine were. I can truly empathize with you! Stay strong and let us know if you need anything.
    Sam
  • terri805
    terri805 Member Posts: 122
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    I admire your positive attitude
    Hi Karina,

    I just received the news yesterday that I have insitu ductal carcinoma. I am 52 yrs old and I have three children,b/g twins 16yrs and a girl 20yrs. I also have diabetes. I am emotionally exhausted already. I have gotten many words of support here from the women who knows what I am going through. I am afraid of what lies ahead of me but with the positive support here I feel that I am growing stronger to face it head on. I wish you the best and I will be here to support you as well as we go through this together. My prayers are with you.
  • taleena
    taleena Member Posts: 1,612 Member
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    Karina... welcome to the
    Karina... welcome to the boards... though I am so sorry for the reason that brought you here, you have come to a wonderful place for information, and support. We are all here to support and encourage eachother.

    I know it's a scary situation to be in, but we have all been there. I am 42 and was dx'd last May... What a day that was... try to get as much information about your dx as possible... in the mean time participate here as much as you want or need to.. the members here are truely quite amazing.

    Hugs to you,

    ~T
  • AmandaMarie29
    AmandaMarie29 Member Posts: 55
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    Hi Karina
    Hi Karina...Sorry that you have to deal with this. I am 29yrs and was diagnosed on Nov. 9th....I am having a double mastectomy w/reconstruction on the 28th and I will then know what kind of treatment I will be having. It is very overwhelming all of the choises that you will have to make here soon and it is difficult to digest everything. Just have faith that it will be ok...everyday you become more and more comfortable with the fact that it has happened to you. Learn as much as you can about the type of BC that you have and all the options that are available to you for treatment. The more you learn and ask question the stronger you will be to get yourself through it. Knowledge truly is power in this journey. If you need anything let me know...there are some really good books out there that will get you in tip top shape for your bout... you will do great :)

    Mandi
  • Sunrae
    Sunrae Member Posts: 808
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    Hi Karina
    Hi Karina...Sorry that you have to deal with this. I am 29yrs and was diagnosed on Nov. 9th....I am having a double mastectomy w/reconstruction on the 28th and I will then know what kind of treatment I will be having. It is very overwhelming all of the choises that you will have to make here soon and it is difficult to digest everything. Just have faith that it will be ok...everyday you become more and more comfortable with the fact that it has happened to you. Learn as much as you can about the type of BC that you have and all the options that are available to you for treatment. The more you learn and ask question the stronger you will be to get yourself through it. Knowledge truly is power in this journey. If you need anything let me know...there are some really good books out there that will get you in tip top shape for your bout... you will do great :)

    Mandi

    Dear Karina, Just wanted to
    Dear Karina, Just wanted to welcome you to this amazing site with all the wonderful women (and men) on board. You will be on a roller coaster ride for awhile, but it eases out too. Some days are good, some days not. I'm so sorry that you are so young to hear this news and I'm sorry for all of you young women who are here. I'm a newbie in the sense that I was dxed in Sept. and haven't had surgery yet, been on hormone therapy. I'm one of the older women here, close to 70, and wasn't so shocked when I heard the news because my mother died with bc. Still there are days when it seems like a nightmare and you just want to wake up. Let us know more about your cancer when you find out. We're here for you and want to know how you're doing.
  • pgrace35
    pgrace35 Member Posts: 122
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    Best remedy
    Karina...you have already started out on the right foot. Like you I took very good care of myself, exercised, eat really well, don't smoke, don't drink excessively and when I got my diagnosis, I was baffled, even tested negative for the BRCA1&2. For what ever reason we got this cancer is unknown, now we must battle it. Be your own advocate is my best advice, educate yourself, speak to other women, share what you have learned with others and keep positive.And remember it's ok to feel frustrated or sad if and when it comes to that point, it doesn't mean you are weak or giving up, it just can come along with the process.This site is wonderful for so many reasons, all of us understand your fears, pain, frustrations and everything that comes along with this process. Being as healthy as you are will only help you more to get through this. My thoughts are with you...hang in there, your not alone, ever!
  • DebbyM
    DebbyM Member Posts: 3,289 Member
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    pgrace35 said:

    Best remedy
    Karina...you have already started out on the right foot. Like you I took very good care of myself, exercised, eat really well, don't smoke, don't drink excessively and when I got my diagnosis, I was baffled, even tested negative for the BRCA1&2. For what ever reason we got this cancer is unknown, now we must battle it. Be your own advocate is my best advice, educate yourself, speak to other women, share what you have learned with others and keep positive.And remember it's ok to feel frustrated or sad if and when it comes to that point, it doesn't mean you are weak or giving up, it just can come along with the process.This site is wonderful for so many reasons, all of us understand your fears, pain, frustrations and everything that comes along with this process. Being as healthy as you are will only help you more to get through this. My thoughts are with you...hang in there, your not alone, ever!

    ((((( Karina )))))
    Welcome Karina and good luck. Sending you lots of hugs!

    Debby
  • shortscake
    shortscake Member Posts: 228
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    would like to welcome
    would like to say welcome but when you come to the boards that means they have told you have the big BC and that is a very hard pill to take but one thing for sure the battle you are about will make you very strong and yes you will get scared when that happen come to the board someone here has been though what you are about to deal with. we are hear at all times so if you want to vent please do some times you cant tell family or friend but you can tell us anything because for sure someone on here has been though it also. hope to hear from you soon.