Hrllo I am very recently diagnosed with breast cancer and am looking to talk to people in a similar situation. In brief tbis is my story-
Following a call back from my mammogram I was told they had found suspicious findings on both sides, I had reported a lump on my right side only. I received further scans and mammograms and had biopsies taken from both sides at this appointment, a week later, last Fi, I went back for my results, I have a stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinomo breast cancer on my right side, luckily the left biopsy came back clear and they dont think it has soread to my lymph nodes. Because my tumor is oestrogen receptive and they don't feel I need any choemo at this stage. have been asked if I would be prepared to take part in a study looking at how effective the use of endocrine treatment would be if used for 6 months prior to surgery in shrinking tumours. Depending on which side of the study I am randomly selected to be in this could mean postponing surgery for around 6 months, I would be monitored during this time. I really don't know what to do so was wondering if anyone here had had a similar experience? I am back at the hospital on Thurs to discuss what I wish to do. My options are to enter the study or go straight to a surgery ootion which would involve sentinel lymph node biopsies and a wide local excision.
Hi Kat1 and a very warm welcome to the Community but sorry to hear about your diagnoses.
Navigating the cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from people who have walked the ‘exact same' cancer journey can help a lot. (I have a completely different cancer).
The New to Community is like our reception desk where we look to direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our dedicated Breast Cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
To connect in with the group click on this link>
…… then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)
When you are ready you can introduce yourself by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.
We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow 3 working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing and give support to all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
I think I would ask how big the tumour is. That should help you decide whether you want to get rid of it at once or shrink it first. And whether shrinking it first would make it safer to remove without spreading. My son is having chemo to shrink his 5 cm thymic tumour before surgery but that is a bit different as these are hard to remove when they have got that big. Breast tumours may be different.
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
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