Coping with Unexpected Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Changes

Communities›Black and Brown Thrivers›Coping with Unexpected Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Changes

JB

Community Member

2 years ago

Hello everyone I was newly diagnosed after imaging and biopsies in November of 2023 with DCIS stage 0 left breast Er/PR positive. The right breast atypical hyperplasia (pre cancerous). All genetic testing negative for mutations. No history of any cancer on either side of my family. The plan was lumpectomy on the left excision on the right. Radiation and tamoxifen. I had my surgery on 3/08/2024. I was so happy thinking my journey was almost over. 3 weeks later my pathology results came back invasive ductal carcinoma ER+/Her2+ on the left. Right side invasive Ductal carcinoma and DCIS on the margins. Now I have to have a second surgery to get clean margins have some lymph nodes removed for testing on 5/30. I will have a port placed at this time as well since my plan of care includes chemo. I’m really afraid and don’t really know how to stay positive.

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2 comments

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Accepted Answer

Receiving unexpected pathology results that change your treatment plan can feel overwhelming, and those feelings of fear are completely understandable when facing additional surgery and new treatments. Many people in this community have navigated similar treatment changes and found ways to cope with the uncertainty - consider reaching out to connect with others who may have walked a similar path. Having a strong support system, whether through this community or your care team, can make a real difference in managing the emotional challenges that come with treatment plan adjustments.

3+ patients found this helpful

ME

Community Member

6 months ago

I'm so sorry to hear that you are going through this Jenny. Each stage I went through was scary ( I'm still in the process). I think sometimes just the not knowing (and in your case, also getting unexpected information) makes us feel that extra worry. Ugh, I hate that. It will get better with time. Try to take care of yourself (for me that was eating better and getting my involved with God and other things). That gave me me control of the BC which helped me mentally. Walking and getting outside, asking lot level your in the morning calmed my mind. I will pray for you

2

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Receiving unexpected pathology results that change your treatment plan can feel overwhelming, and those feelings of fear are completely understandable when facing additional surgery and new treatments. Many people in this community have navigated similar treatment changes and found ways to cope with the uncertainty - consider reaching out to connect with others who may have walked a similar path. Having a strong support system, whether through this community or your care team, can make a real difference in managing the emotional challenges that come with treatment plan adjustments.

Coping with Unexpected Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Changes

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