I have breast cancer.
Janet
Comments
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Ask lots of questions and take someone with you!
And take notes. Ask about staging, treatment options, please repeat that in English. What would you advise for your mother/sister/wife? Don't be afraid to ask questions and ask for clarification. What does it all mean for me? This is all overwhelming, confusing, and exhausting. If you're not comfortable ask for a second opinion. Many breast centers have a patient navigator who can also provide information and help answer your questions. Also make sure to ask if you can call with other questions and who it will be on the other end of the phone. And come back here. We've all been through it and there's bound to be someone who walked in the same shoes. Get specifics on diagnosis - not all breast cancers are the same. And the treatments are not the same.
Where are you in VA?0 -
Thank you. I am in New Kentskipper54 said:Ask lots of questions and take someone with you!
And take notes. Ask about staging, treatment options, please repeat that in English. What would you advise for your mother/sister/wife? Don't be afraid to ask questions and ask for clarification. What does it all mean for me? This is all overwhelming, confusing, and exhausting. If you're not comfortable ask for a second opinion. Many breast centers have a patient navigator who can also provide information and help answer your questions. Also make sure to ask if you can call with other questions and who it will be on the other end of the phone. And come back here. We've all been through it and there's bound to be someone who walked in the same shoes. Get specifics on diagnosis - not all breast cancers are the same. And the treatments are not the same.
Where are you in VA?
Thank you. I am in New Kent about 15 minutes from richmond airport.0 -
It helped for me to bring myn2summer said:Thank you. I am in New Kent
Thank you. I am in New Kent about 15 minutes from richmond airport.
It helped for me to bring my daughter to take notes because it's easy to become overwhelmed with information and forget something.
Best of luck and please keep us posted.
Hugs,
Wanda0 -
I agreen2summer said:Thank you. I am in New Kent
Thank you. I am in New Kent about 15 minutes from richmond airport.
I agree, have someone there to take notes. I'm sorry for your diagnosis, but the women here give wonderful advice. I am about 45 minutes north from you in VA. (Stafford County)
*hugs* Patti Anne0 -
Janet,
I got a book called
Janet,
I got a book called "just get me through this" by Deborah Cohen and Robert Gelfand MD.
It helped me a lot. Others like Dr Susan Love's book. Either one will give you practical advise and ideas.
Please take some one with you. These next few weeks will be a blur and 2 pairs of ears are better. The note pad is a great idea. Remember doctors are people too, ask them what ever questions you have. If need be, have them write stuff down or spell it out. They are there for you!
This is a crazy ride but you are not alone! This board is a great resource and there is always some one here.
Cindy0 -
A couple books to look for.mamolady said:Janet,
I got a book called
Janet,
I got a book called "just get me through this" by Deborah Cohen and Robert Gelfand MD.
It helped me a lot. Others like Dr Susan Love's book. Either one will give you practical advise and ideas.
Please take some one with you. These next few weeks will be a blur and 2 pairs of ears are better. The note pad is a great idea. Remember doctors are people too, ask them what ever questions you have. If need be, have them write stuff down or spell it out. They are there for you!
This is a crazy ride but you are not alone! This board is a great resource and there is always some one here.
Cindy
"Uplift" was a great gift I received and was full of lots of info and tips from women who have been on this journey. Also recently found "Chicken Soup for the Breast Cancer Survivor's Soul". As someone pointed out to me you are a survivor the day you are diagnosed. There are some uplifting stories in here and some that make you laugh. Just what you need. The last one is "The Lighter Side of Breast Cancer Recovery" by Tammi Miller. She's a clown and lends her own insight and humor to the whole process as well as providing a list of questions for each Dr. you encounter. All can be found on Amazon. You'll get lots of "technical" info and it can be a bit overwhelming so some "lighter" things are good to keep your spirits up and focus on the positive. All of these books are now available at our breast cancer care center library.0 -
I am so sorry. I remember
I am so sorry. I remember all to well....it is devasting to get these results. I personally found it very helpful to bring family members with me to my initial meetings. I was too numb to ask many questions, so they stepped up and asked for me. Plus, they provide the support you need through the appointment and treatment ahead.
There are many great resources out there. I did a significant amount of research online. You just need to be careful and ensure it's from a credible source, like the American Cancer Society, etc. It also helps to reach out to others who are going through or have gone through the same experience, like on this site. Do you have a Gilda's Club in the area? It is an excellent means of support when dealing with cancer. I would highly recommend it.
My prayers go out to you. Leslie0 -
good advise from all theskipper54 said:A couple books to look for.
"Uplift" was a great gift I received and was full of lots of info and tips from women who have been on this journey. Also recently found "Chicken Soup for the Breast Cancer Survivor's Soul". As someone pointed out to me you are a survivor the day you are diagnosed. There are some uplifting stories in here and some that make you laugh. Just what you need. The last one is "The Lighter Side of Breast Cancer Recovery" by Tammi Miller. She's a clown and lends her own insight and humor to the whole process as well as providing a list of questions for each Dr. you encounter. All can be found on Amazon. You'll get lots of "technical" info and it can be a bit overwhelming so some "lighter" things are good to keep your spirits up and focus on the positive. All of these books are now available at our breast cancer care center library.
good advise from all the ladies. My prayers are with you.
Stef0 -
Surgeons Meeting
Okay folks... This is the news I got:
invasive ductal carcinoma,er &pr positive, grade 1 stage 1.. less than 5mm..
I am scheduled for breast MRI next week, assuming that this is clear doctor says lumpectomy with radiation would be appropriate. She said that I had one of the best scenarios she has seen in a long time. She said they would also remove and test a lymph node while in surgery but she really didn't think anything was there.
She said this cancer was not aggressive and it would have probably taking another 3 years for me to feel it.
As silly as it sounds I almost feel like I have won the lottery. I really like this doctor she was very informative and had a great disposition.
Never been through anything like this before...what are your thoughts? Thanks so much0 -
Oh wow...n2summer said:Surgeons Meeting
Okay folks... This is the news I got:
invasive ductal carcinoma,er &pr positive, grade 1 stage 1.. less than 5mm..
I am scheduled for breast MRI next week, assuming that this is clear doctor says lumpectomy with radiation would be appropriate. She said that I had one of the best scenarios she has seen in a long time. She said they would also remove and test a lymph node while in surgery but she really didn't think anything was there.
She said this cancer was not aggressive and it would have probably taking another 3 years for me to feel it.
As silly as it sounds I almost feel like I have won the lottery. I really like this doctor she was very informative and had a great disposition.
Never been through anything like this before...what are your thoughts? Thanks so much
You did receive good news. You are the most common form of BC and being ER & PR positive that's a good thing. I am sure when you are done with surgery and radiation you will be given medication (hormone therapy) for a few years. I am currently in this phase myself. I have been through everything you have just mentioned except my tumor was too big to save the breast. I opted for a double mastectomy and I am currently in the reconstruction phase.
I am so glad things went well for you and please keep us up to date on your journey. You are afterall part of the family now.
Hugs,
Lorrie0 -
You didbutterflylvr said:Oh wow...
You did receive good news. You are the most common form of BC and being ER & PR positive that's a good thing. I am sure when you are done with surgery and radiation you will be given medication (hormone therapy) for a few years. I am currently in this phase myself. I have been through everything you have just mentioned except my tumor was too big to save the breast. I opted for a double mastectomy and I am currently in the reconstruction phase.
I am so glad things went well for you and please keep us up to date on your journey. You are afterall part of the family now.
Hugs,
Lorrie
You did get great news and that's wonderful. As treatment goes on, remember to write down all your questions and just be good to yourself.
marge0 -
Awesone news not aggressivemwallace1325 said:You did
You did get great news and that's wonderful. As treatment goes on, remember to write down all your questions and just be good to yourself.
marge
Awesome news from your doctor.Not aggressive.Thoughts and Prayers to you.Soon the thing will be out and you find out what's next.
My cancer was DCIS non invasive with clear margins with the second surgery.Cancerous Tumor was 1/2 centimeter.A seond tumor was found as I was prepped during the first surgery(Benign).Then 3 weeks later for the margin surgery another benign tumor(No.3) was found by me 2 days before.
Then TODAY I was called by my doctor that a tumor that was biopsied on Tues was benign.It has been a roller coaster and I hope you don't have to go through the stress I have been having.At least they are benign but the waiting for the lumpectomy or a needle biopsy is very very stressful.
I didn't need chemo or radiation with non invasive.Your doctor will know more after you have the lumpectomy.Sounds like they got it very early.
Will be thinking of you.Post what is going on the next few weeks.
Lynn Smith0 -
You did win the lotteryLynn Smith said:Awesone news not aggressive
Awesome news from your doctor.Not aggressive.Thoughts and Prayers to you.Soon the thing will be out and you find out what's next.
My cancer was DCIS non invasive with clear margins with the second surgery.Cancerous Tumor was 1/2 centimeter.A seond tumor was found as I was prepped during the first surgery(Benign).Then 3 weeks later for the margin surgery another benign tumor(No.3) was found by me 2 days before.
Then TODAY I was called by my doctor that a tumor that was biopsied on Tues was benign.It has been a roller coaster and I hope you don't have to go through the stress I have been having.At least they are benign but the waiting for the lumpectomy or a needle biopsy is very very stressful.
I didn't need chemo or radiation with non invasive.Your doctor will know more after you have the lumpectomy.Sounds like they got it very early.
Will be thinking of you.Post what is going on the next few weeks.
Lynn Smith
As we've said not all breast cancer is the same. E+ is a good thing but you'll probably end up on an estrogen supressor. I had IDC too and it was E+. My onc was thrilled because it's not as nasty or aggressive. We'll be here for you as you go through your tests, sugery, and rads. Try to do something relaxing and/or special this evening. And thanks for keeping us posted!0 -
give it time
dear Janet you are going to need some time to digest the news, first is the shocking moment and then you have to accept it, process it and time to make decisions - take a time, perhaps you will need your best friend to rant and cry for a while - and then is time to pick yourself up and give the battle of your life, we all went trough exactly the same, in the mean time receive our love and best wishes for a good outcome
xoxo
cecilia0 -
Welcomen2summer said:Surgeons Meeting
Okay folks... This is the news I got:
invasive ductal carcinoma,er &pr positive, grade 1 stage 1.. less than 5mm..
I am scheduled for breast MRI next week, assuming that this is clear doctor says lumpectomy with radiation would be appropriate. She said that I had one of the best scenarios she has seen in a long time. She said they would also remove and test a lymph node while in surgery but she really didn't think anything was there.
She said this cancer was not aggressive and it would have probably taking another 3 years for me to feel it.
As silly as it sounds I almost feel like I have won the lottery. I really like this doctor she was very informative and had a great disposition.
Never been through anything like this before...what are your thoughts? Thanks so much
First, Welcome to the most supportive, informative, loving, caring,awesome group of Pink Sisters ever. You will find tons of information and advise from ones who have gone through exactly what you are going through now.
Second, In the world of cancer "Not Aggressive" is wonderful news. I so happy to hear that ....and that your doc said yours is the one of the best scenarios she has seen.
Keep that wonderful postitive attitude!!
Hugs,
Debi0 -
You will be OK.
Janet -- Everyone gave you good advice. Please know you will be OK. It is so important to stay positive, no matter what. Have faith. We will be here to support you.0 -
N2Summer,LoveBabyJesus said:You will be OK.
Janet -- Everyone gave you good advice. Please know you will be OK. It is so important to stay positive, no matter what. Have faith. We will be here to support you.
You have the same
N2Summer,
You have the same diagnosis I had, although my tumors (2) were just a wee bit bigger. I am one year & nearly 4 months since surgery; almost a year since I finished chemo. I got a great prognosis, have hair again and feel pretty good. You'll come through this just fine.
Be kind to yourself and take one day at a time. Its nothing anyone wants to do, but you CAN DO IT! Welcome to a Wonderful source of support and caring.
Chickadee0 -
so sorry to hear
I know right now you must be in a bit of a trance...it seems so unreal....you have a roller coaster ride ahead of you, but know this for sure, we are all right here. you are not alone. we have been on the same ride., and anything we can help you with just ask. Do take someone with you, you will not come out of the trance for a while...don't add to your anxiety by checking every website on the internet, just take it slow and easy, make one decision at a time...you have time to sort through it and make decisions for yourself...ask us anything and use the acs or call them, they are wonderful at guiding you through this too. Always someone very helpful and kind at the other end of the phone. Welcome to pink sister land. You will get through this, tears, fears, and all, you will be ok, that is what you need to know, you will be ok. Sinee0 -
Breast MRIn2summer said:Surgeons Meeting
Okay folks... This is the news I got:
invasive ductal carcinoma,er &pr positive, grade 1 stage 1.. less than 5mm..
I am scheduled for breast MRI next week, assuming that this is clear doctor says lumpectomy with radiation would be appropriate. She said that I had one of the best scenarios she has seen in a long time. She said they would also remove and test a lymph node while in surgery but she really didn't think anything was there.
She said this cancer was not aggressive and it would have probably taking another 3 years for me to feel it.
As silly as it sounds I almost feel like I have won the lottery. I really like this doctor she was very informative and had a great disposition.
Never been through anything like this before...what are your thoughts? Thanks so much
Listen to me on this one, this is the worst test, everything else after this is easy....you will have one minute in the machine, if you are feeling hot or nauseated after that one minute, and they bring you out, then that is your opportunity to let them know that "you want the good drugs" I have two friends that are nurses, and that was the best advice I got through all of this...don't try to do the Breast MRI without drugs...if your doc. will give you them before to take that am, all the better. But do not try and do this test without them...Sinee0 -
You will do just fine. Then2summer said:Surgeons Meeting
Okay folks... This is the news I got:
invasive ductal carcinoma,er &pr positive, grade 1 stage 1.. less than 5mm..
I am scheduled for breast MRI next week, assuming that this is clear doctor says lumpectomy with radiation would be appropriate. She said that I had one of the best scenarios she has seen in a long time. She said they would also remove and test a lymph node while in surgery but she really didn't think anything was there.
She said this cancer was not aggressive and it would have probably taking another 3 years for me to feel it.
As silly as it sounds I almost feel like I have won the lottery. I really like this doctor she was very informative and had a great disposition.
Never been through anything like this before...what are your thoughts? Thanks so much
You will do just fine. The early stages were the hardest for me, all the unknowns. I stink at those!!!! I also had IDC, Stage 1, grade 2. Was told I would most likely just need radiation after my lumpectomy, but I had a mid range result for the Oncotype test and opted to so 4 session of chemo that my doc suggested. I am just halfway through it now and it has not been nearly as bad as I anticipated. In fact NOTHING has been as bad as I anticipated.
The good Lord, a positive attitude and many supportive family members and friends have made the difference.
I am praying for you!!!
Kim0
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