I have stage 2 ductal carcinoma and awaiting surgery. I am petrified that it has spread although no sign of lymph involvement. I have a painful upper arm muscle do I have lung cancer, I have indigestion so have oesophageal cancer, I have a mole so have skin cancer. I’m on letrozole hormone therapy so know that can cause lots of issues too. I feel like I have a death sentence . Does anyone else feel like this?
Hi Woody14
Oh it's an awful time isn't it, I completely understand your fears. You've had the rug pulled out from under your feet and the certainty you once felt about life has had a massive shake. As everyone always says, it will get better once you know your treatment plan. I had one lymph node involved and there was no evidence of spread and there are many, many other wonderful ladies on here with much more lymph node involvement than me and no signs of spread. However, I know that's probably little comfort when you're in the middle of this storm and so frightened. I was convinced I had everything going at the beginning, but it's nearly three years behind me now. You're in very good hands, I'm sure you will get great care. I'm currently on letrozole myself for 10 years, so I know the challenges that brings too. Be really kind to yourself just now and take care - sending big hugs x
Hi Woody14 , just about to go out but wanted to pop in quickly with a big hug. You’re at a horrible stage where nothing is certain - totally natural to feel the worst. I had stomach pains between diagnosis and surgery and was convinced I had stomach cancer. Thought about what I’d been eating and realised I’d had lots of coconut stuff (milk, yoghurt, cream in a curry), lo and behold when I stopped these the pains went. When I looked at my armpits I was sure there were lumps. Nothing. 6 years post diagnosis I still worry but definitely less paranoid!! Love and hugs, HFxx
Hi Woody14, I too am awaiting surgery for grade 3 invasive ductal breast cancer. I am exactly the same. I have had back pain so convinced it has spread to my bones, a cough so it is in my lungs. From reading posts from others who have gone through this, the mental stress at this stage is one of the hardest parts of this journey. I don't have any solution except keep doing things you enjoy to provide a distraction and know you are not alone and others are feeling the same way. Sending you lots of love and hugs and wishing you the best.
Thank you for your reply. I’m not sure if some of the aches and pains are to do with the Letrozole tbh. Xx
Thank you. It’s such a scary time isn’t it? I just want it to go awaxxx
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007