Breast cancer

FormerMember over 5 years ago

4 replies
24 subscribers
1239 views

Hi. I am new to group. I have just been diagnosed with breast cancer (DCIS) in my right breast following a routine mammogram and several follow ups/ biopsies. It is such a shock . I have an appointment with the consultant next Thursday to discuss surgery options. It is very confusing as they have mentioned a wide area incision lumpectomy and radiotherapy or a mastectomy with possibly no radiotherapy. There is also tbe option of reconstructive surgery. Has anyone got any advice or tips on what to ask at my appointment? I work so also want to know how much time I will need to take off? What are the benefits or risks I should know about? Thanks.

Thehighlander over 5 years ago

Hi and welcome to the Online Community, although I am sorry to see you finding us.

A cancer diagnosis can bring a lot of stress, confusion and questions but talking with people who are on the same journey can help a lot.

Can I direct you to this link to our very supportive Breast cancer group as this will open up your concerns to a wider audience who know exactly what you are going through at the moment.

Just follow the link I have created then hit the ‘Join This Group’ tab just under the main group name, then go to the 'Start a Discussion' tab and set up your very own Discussion and introduce yourself to the group and ask your questions.

All the best.

Mike (Thehighlander)

It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

My cancer story

FormerMember over 5 years ago

I had a mastectomy and diep reconstruction in January 2016. I was off work for 5 months, returning in May. It was the diep healing that took a long time, plus the endless appointments while they decided on further treatments. Definitely take your time returning. I found it all very tiring. Also with the diep I couldn’t drive for 6 weeks as it is stomach fat being removed to make a new breast and was a 9 hour operation.

FormerMember over 5 years ago

Hi SBee. I am in exactly the same situation - routine mammogram and diagnosed on Monday. I have pre-op next week and lumpectomy (although no lump) on 11 December and then radiotherapy. I am hoping not to take too much time off work and want to return after the surgery and before radio. Thankfully I have a couple of weeks off at Christmas so this will help. I know this might be unrealistic but I am going to take each day as it comes and cross my fingers I might be able to keep working even if just reduced hours Hope your appointment to plan treatment goes well.

FormerMember over 5 years ago in reply to FormerMember

Hi SashaF

Sorry to hear you are in the same position. Did they offer any other options apart from lumpectomy and radiotherapy?

The nurse also mentioned mastectomy without the need for radiotherapy but I would like to conserve the breast if I can and if there is no additional risk of the cancer coming back.

Like you I have no lump.

I am also hoping to not take too much time off work and will try to return to work before the radiotherapy if I go for that option.

I hope all goes well for you and please let me know how you get on.

Take care x