My Cancer Journey: From Mammogram to Mastectomy

My tumor measured only 1.5 cm was found on mammogram. I was very lucky.

Good for you. My oncologist talked me out of the mastectomy. After the lumpectomy I was told one margin was not clear and now having radiation. Going forward, I have concerns over the radiation exposure to my heart, lung and ribs and any adjacent organs. I should have trusted myself and gotten a doctor who listened.

Thanks for your reply Marie. I don't have an oncologist yet. After surgery, they'll refer me to whoever based on what they find. My tumors are large and a lumpectomy would make reconstruction impossible. My surgeon definitely did not want to do a double mastectomy, but when I requested an appointment to discuss, it wasn't set up, so I went with what I wanted. My cancer navigater, who is wonderful, gave me the strength to go with what I wanted. She let me know the decision was mine to make. She works for the surgeons and oncologists, so she didn't fear letting me know it was my decision to make. Ok...do you have a cancer "super hero"? They usually work in the cancer centers. I hope that you do, or can have one assigned. They could help you voice your concerns to your medical team. The surgeons, oncologists, have to remove the emotional components and concentrate on the steps they need to do. We are the emotional component, it's our life that's at stake. The cancer "super hero" looks at it from both sides and can be your voice. Without this person, I probably wouldn't have had the strength to voice my concerns either. There's a super hero out there for you!

I had a “normal” mammogram in February. Then September I felt the lump. Biopsy mid October. Turned out it was IDC grade 3, KI67 70%, ER+ PR- HER2- approximately 2.4cm. Scheduled DMX for December. No family history. But my tumor is very aggressive. This is a lot.

I think if you are not pleased with oncologist get another. It’s so important because you will deal with him a long time. I was blessed with a great and caring surgeon, oncologist and radiologist. You need to find a doctor you feel good with and know you can call when scared

I found my cancer in January 2021. I had had a normal mammogram 5 months before. When my surgeon reviewed my mammograms, he said the cancer had been present for at least my last 3 mammograms.

Lynette, I'm so sorry about your missed diagnosis. I'm thinking of getting a second opinion on my "normal" mammogram in May. Are you doing okay?

I’m doing pretty good but have made a doctors appointment for Monday. I have been having some pain in the breast that had a lumpectomy and I don’t trust the mammogram I had 2 months ago.

I get it! I insisted on a double mastectomy because the mammogram didn't catch mine, and it's close to 7 cm, almost 3"! I have lobular BC, and it's supposed to be slower growing than ductile. Surgery is December 6th. Will your Dr. do an MRI? I'm not in a position to give advice. I can only tell you what I'd do. I would request the MRI, and maybe then, even ask for a 2nd opinion.

I just read an article that said mammograms can cause cancer and to only get sonograms

I had my mastectomy in my left breast only. My oncologist told me that it was healthier to keep one and to monitor the right side and I followed her advise. Cáncer is very unique with different characteristics. Mine was ductal carcinoma in Situ and an invasive carcinoma stage 1. You can read more about breast cancer and how you can get it in one breast and no the other one by going to the MD Anderson website. Each breast is unique and has different make up. However, if having a bilateral mastectomy brings peace to you, it might be more important at this point. Good luck!

I also had a - mammogram April 24th. The beginning of Aug , I saw a lump in my left breast.bi went to my gyno who said it was most likely nothing to worry about but would order an ultrasound and a 3D mammogram. I ended up having a biopsy on 3 lesions in my left breast. The one I found was positive for HR2 +invasive, ductal carcinoma , which I will get chemo, surgery, radiation for. I am 72 years old. No breast cancer in my family that I am aware of. I am now in the middle of my 3rd chemo. I am so thankful I found this cancer.

Deborah...We followed a similar path. Mine is invasive lobular. It's pretty much taken residency in my right breast, thus needing the mastectomy. December 6th, surgery day and learning what treatment will look like. I just turned 67. Definitely, finding the cancer on our own is a blessing. Having mammograms, like we're supposed to, causes a false sense of security. One lady on this thread found her mass. When previous mammograms were reviewed, the cancer was detectable for her last 3 mammograms. We can be the voice for doing monthly screening. I saw mine too, which prompted me to feel the area. Wishing you nothing but the best in your journey. 🙏

Beginning to believe some drs saying mammograms cause cancer

Debra B, I wish you the best in your journey also. I really know that I am supposed to get through this since my God found a way to make me aware of this cancer. My breast surgeon said it is a very invasive, fast growing cancer and was not detectable when I had my mammogram. I have heard this story many times before. I think we were pretty lucky in finding ours in time. Good luck.

Thank you for sharing your journey and being so open about the challenges you've faced navigating this difficult time. Many patients experience similar frustrations with communication gaps and the overwhelming feeling of having to advocate for themselves during treatment decisions. Since you mentioned feeling alone, please scroll down the page from the Home Screen of the app to find the Ask Outcomes4Me box to get in touch for a more personal conversation and connect with our clinical care experts - they can provide additional support during this waiting period. You're taking charge of your care and making informed decisions, which shows incredible strength as you prepare for your upcoming surgery.