Breast cancer

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Hello.

In have been told I have breast cancer this week. It’s a lobular ER+ tumour which is 2.5cm. 
I have had a biopsy and it has also been detected in the lymph node. 
I am awaiting an imaging mammogram and an MRI to see if I can have a lumpectomy or a mastectomy and what the treatment pathway will look like.

i am so worried. I know this is treatable but I am just panicking. I know this is also normal. I just need  a bit of reassurance. Slight smile

  • Hello Little Pidgebd29cf

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the Online Community. I’m Debbie, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. I am sorry to hear that you have just been diagnosed with lobular breast cancer and can understand that this is a difficult time. Waiting for tests and results is always hard and there is helpful information on the patient.info website about how to cope while waiting.

    A diagnosis of cancer can be very overwhelming. You might find it helpful to read our web pages about getting emotional support. You can also check the Cancer Care Map to find details of support and information organisations in your local area.

    It is natural to need reassurance and it can really help to talk things through. You are welcome to phone us, as we often find that it is easier to discuss things over the phone when we can get a better idea of your situation. The number to call is 0808 808 0000 and the lines are open every day from 8am to 8pm. You can also contact us by webchat. Here at the Macmillan Support Line, we can give general information and support. We are independent from the NHS and don’t have access to medical records, so we can’t give personalised information.

    You can ask to speak to a clinical nurse specialist in your hospital treatment team. Their role is to support you and give information and they usually work during the week but not at weekends. Your GP can also offer emotional support and information. In the evenings or at weekends, you can call 111 if you feel very overwhelmed or have physical symptoms that are worrying you. NHS111 is open 24 hours and offers mental and physical health support.

    Some cancer support centres offer massage, relaxation sessions or complementary therapies that can be very helpful in managing anxiety. Other websites that can help manage stress and a cancer diagnosis include:

    Every Mind Matters

    Can-Empower

    Apps to help with anxiety and sleep issues

    Maggie’s Cancer Support offers psychological support and support groups for anyone affected by cancer. They also offer online gentle exercise sessions, art therapy, and relaxation sessions that many people find supportive. They may be able to offer you a series of counselling or psychological support sessions.

    I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel welcome to get back in touch with us by email, webchat or phone. You can also visit our breast cancer forum where you can connect with other people who have been affected by cancer. I hope that all goes well for you over the next few weeks but please feel welcome to get back in touch if there is anything we can do to help.

    With best wishes

    Debbie

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