new breast cancer diagnosis: now waiting for PET scan and results

That should say 2cm lump near rectum, not 2 metres!

Hi LottieWat,

I am so sorry to learn of your circumstances and what you are going through. I had a lumpectomy some months ago and lymph nodes removed, I  finished my radiotherapy a few weeks ago and am now taking one day at a time.

I know this is a scary time for you, but it’s good that the first bit  of news is positive and a bit of a relief to you, I know mine is somewhat different to yours, however, if this turns out to be the worse case scenario it is important you take a bit of time to let it register and sink in. The strides made in modern cancer medicine these days is amazing and they can do so much for you. However, there is so much you can do for yourself too.

You have made the first big step by finding the Macmillan site, also do visit your nearest Macmillan centre, a list is on here, or ring them on 0808 808 0000, they are superbly helpful and give you lots of great info, do walks, talks, help with benefits, bills, open 10-4 Mon-Fri for coffee and chat and lots more. I also go for a short walk every day (British weather permitting) and do a daily diary, this is mega helpful, as it gets everything off your chest and out of your system. It is important during the day to keep yourself occupied, hobbies, interests etc., it stops you from dwelling on what is going on. You may also find it beneficial to listen to a meditation podcast, they really help you to relax especially when you are trying to get to sleep. I use one called ‘Go Gently’ by Christine Elizabeth Smith, it does a lot for me. Whatever you do, do not visit Dr Google as there is so much conflicting information, your head will spin and it will stress you out, listen to your medical team and you get great support on here.

I know it’s hard sometimes, but try and keep as positive as you possibly can, have positive people around you and dump the negativity, above all, be kind to yourself - I promise you, you will get through this. You are never alone and can always come and chat to us shower in here.

Keeping fingers and everything crossed for you.

Take care and big hugs.xxx

Hi LottieWat , sorry you have had to join this club which no one would choose…. You’ve got a huge amount going on at the moment and so much uncertainty, no wonder you’re feeling anxious and upset, not to mention angry! Glad you’ve come here, it’s a great place for support and shared experiences. My story is different as I had many false alarms over the years but when I finally got cancer it was apparently unmistakable as I was told on my first visit to the breast clinic on that occasion. Sorry your diagnosis has been so long and drawn out which only makes it worse in terms of living in limbo. 
Keep posting here, many of us have found that just writing it all down can be therapeutic. And there will be others here with more similar stories and experiences. If you click on people’s usernames you can read their profile (if they’ve chosen to fill it in, it’s not compulsory but I think it’s useful). 
Sending love and a big virtual hug your way, HFxx

And just to add, don’t Google!! So much there is out of date or just wrong. Stick to reliable sources of information and support. 
If you’re anywhere near London, I’ve found Future Dreams in Kings Cross a lovely place to go for in house sessions but they also do online stuff. It’s for anyone affected by breast cancer so includes friends and family. Xxx

Thank you Boobybabe2 even just getting all this down on here has helped release some frustration. Appreciate your thoughts and you are right about google, I do need to try and exercise more self restraint there.

I'm so glad to hear you have already made good progress through your treatment plan. Hoping your life starts to settle into a more 'normal' routine in the coming weeks and months.

Thank you HappyFeet1 , i'm giving myself a gold star for coming on here and registering a profile this morning. My partner went to work and I was staring down the barrel of a day trying to get on with my work whilst waiting for the Pet late this afternoon and was just spiralling. Sharing feels good.

It sounds from the very clear way you've articulated your advice that you have done a lot of work to process your own thoughts and feelings, and its reassuring to know that I might be able to come out of this with similar sage advice and support for others. Thank you x