Just Hi and really basic questions.

I just watched the Sarah Beeny programme about her cancer journey and she said that in the NHS, cancer patients have the right to ask for a second opinion at a different hospital and she went to the Royal Marsden which is a flagship London hospital and centre of excellence for breast cancer. Not practical to everyone to be going to London for treatment but the other hospital you mention might put your mind at ease if you can get a lift there? You have to do what's right for you. At our local private clinic the same surgeons perform the same surgery in the NHS hospital anyway! It's the pre and after-care which is in a nicer environment that's all, where we are. Lay it on thick about your fear with the surgeon and you never know... good luck xx

Oh goodness what a nightmare. I'm fortunate I have health insurance through my work so I was able to go private for surgery and I have two local NHS hospitals I could of had chemo at. Certainly talk to surgeon.

Hi Ste59, I'm in the same situation as you. Get my biopsy results for two suspected tumours and lymph node Tuesday. The unknown is sooooooooo scary. It's exhausting trying not to think the worst and stay positive (I've two boys under 3). The Sarah beeny doc definitely made me feel more positive, it feels more achievable to survive it all! 

I've found Macmillan website and cancer research website really useful for understanding all the lingo/ stages/ types etc. 

Really hope you get the best possible news tomorrow and that finally knowing what can be done helps. Sending love! X

Hi Ste59, wondering how it went today? Hoping you're not feeling too bad x

Hi, well the results are in

Mastectomy without reconstruction in about 6 weeks followed by anti oestrogen meds for ? years. Still digesting info & have questions but am seeing lovely BC nurse next week. Overall feeling this was the 'best' outcome for me but still a bit bewildered if I'm honest. x

Hi Ste59, similar result to mine and similar outcome.  My surgery is next week and then I have the 3 week wait for the sentinal lymph node biopsy and hopefully no further treatment apart from the anti oestrogen meds for 5 years... I'm pleased your nurse is lovely; they are special people aren't they?? Glad you're sounding a bit less panicked but it's a lot to process for sure. I'm relieved I've made the decision about no reconstruction since it means less invasive stuff in future and less obstruction if any radiotherapy is required. Right decision for me but I'm in my 60s so easier decision than for a younger woman I guess... take good care and wishing you all the best xxx

Hi Ste59

 sorry to hear you are also going through this difficult time. I have very similar situation having 3 tumours in my breast. Will have mastectomy in July so just waiting now.

I feel similar emotions as feel this is probably also my ‘best outcome’ And sending you a hug x

Hi Ellis123  so glad you've come to a decision that you're happy with (lovely hubby will be happy for you too and probably a bit relieved ). Lots of good vibes for your surgery next week, you're a brave soldier leading the latest mastectomy gang! It looks like you,me & Jax 007 are on the same J-word this summer  xxx

Hi Jax007 & thanks  for your kind words.

It's a horrible rollercoaster we're on isn't it. I go from being terrified about anaesthetic and who will care for my elderly dog who has dementia to trivial things like realising I have no tops with buttons/zips so won't be able to dress myself. 

Hope you're coping with the wait and wishing the best for your surgery. Hugs xxx

It really is a scary rollercoaster the waiting for results is the worst!!!
I hope you can get someone to look after your dog poor fur baby. It’s nice to chat here and thank you so much for your replies xxx