Ductal Carcinoma

I had the same diagnosis, I may be worth checking your notes as mine is "grade 3" which is different to "stage". Grade is how fast it grows but the treatment will stop it in it's tracks. It's obviously natural to feel panicky, I had my partner read the leaflets first and tell me which ones to read first!

Thank you for reply . I will have a look in my notes 

Can I ask what treatment are you or will you be haveing . 

Hi

I think what your feeling is normal. Its devastating. For me, the first couple of weeks was the worst for sleeping and stress. I couldn't sleep for more than about 2 hours a time. Since then I'm sleeping better. I also had hot flushes,despite being 4 years post menopause and I think stress of the diagnosis did this. I get my lumpectomy and node clearance on Monday after being diagnosed more than 7 weeks ago

 It's good that you're getting your op later in the month and not waiting any longer. I don't know the stage and grade as I think they will tell me once they've examined what they remove.

I have times where I'm stressed worrying but finding I have more good days than bad. I'm now aware of every niggle  whereas before I didn't notice. I'm trying to look after myself mentally and physically and hope it's helping me.

Good luck with everything. We can get through this.

Stripey x

Yes, I had chemo first to shrink it, 4 of EC and 4 Docetaxel. I had a couple of ultrasounds in between so I could see how it's progressing. I am having a lumpectomy in a couple of weeks which I am feeling quite panicky about, followed by radiotherapy (not sure how many yet). 

How was the Chemo , have you had any hair loss and any bad side effects thank you for talking with me .

I found the EC ok, but Docetaxel was harder. Loss of taste was horrible, and I had really bad constipation so I recommend getting some stuff for that. 

I tried cold cap for first chemo but as I was losing hair I decided just to shave it off and buy some nice scarves. I personally wasn't fussed about hair loss, but everyone is different, although I did find losing eyebrows tough.

It's difficult because it affects people so differently, with regards to the anxiety, use people around you to talk about your concerns, just letting it out and telling someone what you're worried about helped me x

Thank you