Hello. I was diagnosed with HER2 stage 3 breast cancer in September 2020. And am still struggling emotionally with the diagnoses fear of the present and future
I have completed 4 cycles of ER chemotherapy and have moved onto the next cycles of 4 of TPH.
This all appeared doable before mastectomy and radiotherapy as part of my treatment plan. And I felt emotionally OK with the chemotherapy.
However I began to feel dizzy and light headed about 4 weeks ago which triggered two brain/head area scans.
I just expect to hear from my oncology team that something has shown up on the scans that was of concern. This took place over the past 10 days and has completely overwhelmed me to a place of huge anxiety and depression. I am struggling to focus on any positivity.
I have spoken to my BCN and my GP for support.
My oncologist called just before Christmas day to advise that he has heard back from the neuro team and they advise that what is there is abnormal and wish to proceed with removal of whatever is there. I am awaiting another scan within three weeks to keep a check on size etc.
The oncologist advises that as if is well defined it should be able to be removed.
This will take place prior to my mastectomy and after mu chemo finishes . I have another 3 cycles to go.
I am just at a loss for words and so terrified.
I am also now on more steroids to combat any infection etc which I feel contribute to my low mood. But grateful to take anything that supports mu wellbeing and keeping me alive.
This a terrible situation for you and my heart goes out to you. I can only help by sharing how I manage my anxiety I suppose. Narrow down the focus to the next step only. Do anything that works for you to distract and comfort yourself. I have a painting by numbers app on my phone to help me take one day at a time, sometime just getting through the next hour or so is a massive achievement. You are doing fabulously, you got this far and you can do each thing as it comes. You've taken all the right steps so things will come along soon. We are here, take good care of yourself and as you are doing, just hang in there - Hugs
I'm sorry I can't offer any practical advice or support, I just wanted to let you know that I can see how terrified you are and wanted you to know you are not alone. Keep on taking it one step at a time and remember to breathe. Sending you lots of positive vibes and wishing you well xxxxx
I'm so sorry you are going through this Ella. The waiting is absolutely horrible and I struggled hugely with it as well. There is no easy way to get through it but you will get through it especially with the support of the lovely people on this site. If you ever need to talk to anyone try the AWAKE thread as someone is usually on there throughout the day and a lot of the night. There are ladies on that thread who have had it hard and some who have had it easy but they all get through it with the help of each other. Just post on there say Hi and introduce yourself and you will get a lovely welcome. This link should hopefully take you straight there. Just hit reply to someones message and post. https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/breast-cancer-forum/f/breast-cancer-forum/128753/awake/1519832#1519832
