I’m a newbie to the community

1 reply
474 subscribers
294 views

Hi everyone I’m new to the community and just wanted to introduce myself

I found a lump in august this year just before my 2 week holiday when I returned I headed straight to the doctors to get Checked as my mum had breast cancer at the age of 44 I am 32

I was put on the 2 week pathway and was seen on the 23rd of September where a mammogram picked up 2 areas of concern. I new deep Down what it was.

I was sent for biopsy’s etc and I was told it could possibly be pre cancerous cells, DCIS, I was given the opportunity to have a breast reduction as my breast where a 38DD so my consultant agreed we had wiggle room.I was terrified of having a mastectomy and the surgeon new this I had the surgery on the 2nd of November, all went as well as it could I had 225 grams removed , I returned yesterday and received the results I had pre cancerous cells in one tumour and IDC grade 1 stage 2 in the other tumour. I have to go back and have some lymph nodes removed and for them to be tested
so this is my story so far. I have a great partner and of course my lovely mum behind me

I am just curious regarding genetic testing?
has anyone else been tested?
Sending love and hugs xx

NeedingHope over 2 years ago

Hi Hanfan,

Welcome to the forum and sorry to hear that you were diagnosed with breast cancer at such a young age. I am sorry you are now due to have another surgery, but I am glad you have a good supporting system around you. That is so important. I was diagnosed in mid September and just had my surgery last week and results today. As I am 40, I was offered genetic testing, even if I did not have any family history. I decided to go ahead with the testing, mainly to do what I thought was ticking a box. I took the Invitae panel for 9-12 genes linked with breast cancer. My genetic counsellor is at the Royal Marsden in London. As I had breast cancer, the results came back within 3 weeks (fairly quickly, as it could otherwise take a minimum of 6-8 weeks) so that my treatment could be planned accordingly. It turned out I am actually positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation - what a surprise! So I opted for a mastectomy instead of lumpectomy. And once I will finish treatment for my current breast cancer, I will have a prophylactic mastectomy (risk reducing) on the other side.
It is a personal choice whether you want to have the genetic testing or not. I was really upset when I received the news as I felt like it was a death sentence. But after having processed the news, I now feel empowered to make better choices to reduce any risks of recurrence or additional cancer. I wish I would have known before getting cancer! In any case, since I tested positive, I found that I am followed more closely by doctors, whether you opt for risk reducing surgeries or close monitoring. They will put a good plan for you in place.

Wishing you all the best. Big hugs! Xx

More from this forum

I’m a newbie to the community