Hello,
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2021 which wasn't picked up by a mammogram. I didn't have a lump or pain, only a shadow which i thought was a scar from a cyst i had a few years ago. So I arranged to have a mammogram to put my mind at rest, it came back clear so I tried to put it to the back of my mind. After a couple of months, I went to the GP who referred me to the breast clinic where I had a scan and biopsy which showed i had cancer. That's when my world fell apart. When I explain how it got diagnosed, I feel so stupid.
My cancer is grade 1 two tumours 50 x 40 mm, invasive ductal and DCIS. I had a lumpectomy which didn't have clear margins, My lumph nodes came back clear so I don't need chemotherapy.
My second operation was a cavity scrape, which also came back unclear and evidence of further tumours. As they are low grade, but spread throughput breast. My options now are, I could either have another lumpectomy but my breasts are small so I would end up with a deformed breast or I could have a mastectomy. I'm going to opt for the mastectomy with immediate reconstruction.
I'm currently waiting to see the reconstruction nurse to discuss an implant, i don't want to go flat, but would like to know if anyone has had a mastectomy with immediate reconstruction.
I know I have things I should be grateful for, like not having chemotherapy or radiotherapy. But I still feel in shock and can't believe this is happening to me.
I would welcome any advice or suggestions regarding this.
Many thanks
LW
Hi 3883 and welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about diagnosis. A cancer diagnosis can be a very stressful and challenging time but I do hope you find the community a safe place to get support and ask your questions.
The New to Community is like our reception desk where you can be signpost to our various cancer support groups and other services.
Talking with people who have had the same journey can help and I do see you have already joined our Breast cancer group. This will be a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green link I have created above. Then once the page opens you can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using) and you are ready to go.
You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post and as always you can reply to existing ‘Discussions’ by click [reply].
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. You may also find our Cancer Nurse Team in our Ask an Expert section helpful but do allow a few working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face when on a cancer journey (patient or family) can be very helpful but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing and provide support for all the family.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best ((hugs))
