I’m 51. Had my.first routine mammogram 5th November and was called into the Breast Clinic due to calcification 22nd November. They did a biopsy. Nice nurse said I should expect some treatment. . Returned 3rd December & told it is DCIS. High grade & lots of it so I would need a mastectomy. Had further biopsy (fibroid) & MRI the following week. I was terrified waiting for the MRI results but they told me a week later that all was as they thought & a mastectomy should be all I need. . It is weird to be relieved that I am “just” having a mastectomy. I am now in pandemic/mastectomy limbo of both dreading the op but desperate to have it in case the pandemic takes off again. I feel like I am on a seesaw & just going up & down constantly at the moment. When will my head stop spinning? I’m lucky to be very busy with work but hit a wall energy wise every day. So inspired by the amazing women on this forum. Thank you all of you You help make me feel that this brain twisting experience I am having might be normal xx
Hi Greatcrestedgrebe
i am going through exactly the same thing although a little older at 57
i noticed a small amount of nipple discharged which prompted me to contact the doctor, who referred me straight to the breast clinic. Then after a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy, 5 days later BOOM I’m told by a lovely doctor I have DCIS! Because of the location, effected area and I’m only small (34B) it would mean having a mastectomy. I burst into tears and was in total shock as it was the last thing I expected. I didn’t hear much else at that consultation other than I would qualify for an immediate reconstruction and after chatting to my Brest cancer nurse for a while was sent home with a bundle of information saying they would be in touch to discuss next steps
I had about 3 weeks of limbo with my head in a total spin, like you was busy at work which helped somewhat but am finding it really difficult to concentrate some days. Work are great allowing time off for appointments etc I have a big family and only my daughter and sister knew what was happening so I had to go round and told them the result individually (in my pecking order!) it was difficult as I felt so sorry for them not knowing what to say 
we had lots of hugs. A few close friend and work colleagues know but I’m not the type of person who feels the need to tell the world atm, maybe I’ll do that after but right now it’s about my and my close family’s feelings. Everyone is different though and you will do what’s right for you
I have surgery NYE….. at least I can start 2022 cancer free
i does seem weird saying that as I don’t feel any different
I went to my follow up appointment this week and can’t believe how different I feel! My surgeon went through the whole procedure (I’m a wuss but even the hubby said I did ok) showing me implants, diagrams and photos of others who had the same treatment, We discussed the analysis they would do on the tissue and lymph nodes (I’m having approx 3 removed) and the chance of the cancer being invasive and what would happen if it was, this could result in Chemo or radiotherapy, but will cross that bridge if it comes! I asked questions (which I suggest writing down as I would have forgot if not) and he answered them all. One thing I was worried about were the chances of it developing in my other breast, he assured me it was only slightly higher and we looked at my mammogram images whilst discussing it and I will have regular check ups so feel better about it now. After an examination and discussing size of implant with another doctor, my surgeon said his goodbyes and them I had a nice long chat with the BC nurse My husband came with me to each appointment which really helped so recommend you don’t do things on your own
i feel so much more positive now, sleeping better and can sort of focus on other things instead of it being the only thing in my head! I have 2 good friend that have been in the same place a few years ago, both different stories but they totally get where I am and where I’m going
I do worry more about the pandemic, we have always had a big family get together at mine and after last year we were all excited to make up for lost time I have 15 coming this year, I have decided to still go ahead as we are older and my less likely to be mixing in large crowds prior to Xmas day Everyone is going to take a lateral flow test in the morning and no negative result no entry! I will be opening windows throughout the house and will try to be cautious I will definitely be shielding after Xmas day!
im still trying to convince myself it’s the right choice as I think for me the distraction outweighs the risk
I think our heads will be spinning for a while but I am sharing my story to help you know that you’re not alone, we are all on our version of the same path and we will get to our destination, our personal road just might take a detour now and again 
I found it’s best done at your own speed, whatever feels right will be right for you
It is I wish you all the best for Xmas, New Year and the journey you are about to start
