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I was diagnosed 2 days ago and I’m surprised that I was so shocked because my mum died with breast cancer and I’m a retired nurse with some experience of breast examination. But I was convinced that the lump I found 1 week ago was a cyst ( I had a cyst aspirated 20 years ago). So- biopsy taken, & although consultant said “ it’s suspicious”, he went on to give me all the information about cancer and that I need to return in 10 days to discuss my treatment options. Then I went in to see the MacMillan nurse, who was very supportive and gave me more information. As I’m sure you know, I didn’t take it all in. I gather that the next step is lumpectomy and take it from there. At first, I was happy to just go along with that, but now I’m not too sure. I’m 70, & apart from rheumatoid arthritis, I’m fit & healthy, have a good life, love my holidays & have 3 gorgeous grandchildren who I want to see grow into the wonderful adults they are shaping up to be. So, plenty to live for and I don’t want to spend the coming years metaphorically looking over my shoulder, waiting for the cancer to return. I want a mastectomy, even though I know the implications and that it’s no guarantee of success.

So- what’s the point of a lumpectomy? It just seems to be unnecessary , or is it? The end result is that I’d still want the mastectomy and I want it as soon as it’s practical to do so. Am I going in the wrong direction? Suffering from a knee jerk reaction? Did anyone else have the same thoughts post diagnosis?
It’s going to be a rocky road isn’t it?

Lana65 over 1 year ago

Hello Jennand and so sorry to hear you've found yourself in this situation! I don't think you are going in the wrong direction. I would have done the same which I actually did 4 months ago. Mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. I don't regret my decision. I'm 58. I am also having chemotherapy (6 cycles down, 2 more to go!) and then I'll be having 15 sessions of radioterapy, etc. I was terrified at the beginning but I pulled myself together and I dare say I feel quite optimistic right now. I have two grown-up children, no grandchildren yet and just like you I want to be with them for as long as possible sharing with them whatever life throws at us! Follow your instincts, that's the best piece of advice I can give and make sure you are absolutely comfortable with whatever decision you make about your treatment plan! The very best of luck!

Big hug,

Lana xx

My Grace is Sufficient over 1 year ago

Hi, sorry that you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and that your mum died from breast cancer. I was diagnosed September 2022 with Tubular breast cancer. I had a lumpectomy (5cms) and sentinel node removal. Thankfully the sentinel node was clear but the margins weren’t clear. I had a second lumpectomy. Whilst discussing next steps I was offered a further lumpectomy and I asked if a mastectomy would lessen the risk of the cancer returning and I was told not. The only negative he said was you might need another lumpectomy if the margins are still not clear. I was prepared to take that risk. My margins were clear second time. I didn’t need chemo but two weeks radiotherapy and oestrogen blockers for 7 years which I’m off at the minute due to side effects. Talk to the MacMillan nurses they will be able to help with your questions. Hope this helps xx

Jennand over 1 year ago in reply to Lana65

Hi Lana, thanks for your response. I’m feeling a bit calmer now (4am thoughts are dark aren’t they?) I’ve spoken to my husband and he’s encouraged me to wait until the biopsy results are back and my consultant has more information to work on. I wish you well in your recovery.

Jennand over 1 year ago in reply to My Grace is Sufficient

Hello My Grace, thanks for your reply. Daylight brought a bit of clarity & my husband ( the level headed one of us) encouraged me to speak to my consultant when the biopsy results are in. I’m glad your 2nd lumpectomy was successful and wish you well with your radiotherapy

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