My Breast Cancer Journey: From Diagnosis to Mastectomy

I had lumpectomy and on radiation now. 2 more weeks of radiation to go then start on hormone blockers. Knowing what I know now, I think I would go for mastectomy. I pray you have an easier time with mastectomy

Thank you will be praying for you as well. I just want Oct 1st to come so I can move on.

Janet sending you prayers and speedy recovry🙏

Sheila, why would you go for the mastectomy? Just curious I am newly diagnosed noninvasive ductal and am hoping the lumpectomy and radiation will knock it out…but feeling a bit pressured by all the decisions you have to make when it feels like just guesses about what your body and the cancer is going to do…

The radiation intensifies and begins to burn. The cancer can come back. After talking with friends that had double mastectomy for same diagnosis I began to second guess my Decision. Talked to another friend that had double mastectomy’s and decided that there is no easy solution. I will be on meds for next 5 years that can have serious side effects.🤔

Thank you Sheila, appreciate hearing your take.

I was thinking if I had the double mastectomy I wouldn’t have to have radiation and be on hormone blockers for 5 years. Also no mammograms. But I am stage 0 and that seemed extreme is why I decided on lumpectomy. I have 7 more radiation treatment and instead of radiating the whole breast the last 7 will focus on lumpectomy site

Stage 1 ductal in one breast lobular in the other had to take one breast elected to take the other instead of the suggested lumpectomy.. after surgery surgeon said good call on my part more cancer on the other breast undetected on imaging the lumpectomy would have not been the solution.. I always say trust your gut and go forward.. I’m glad I did .. that was in February.. had tissue expanders put in , fills and five weeks of radiation.. just had my exchange surgery to implants in mid August..so far so good on AI for 5 years so far no side effects there either .. I hope it continues.. only God knows

Prayers for everyone. Sometimes I feel I am on a roller coaster. Went to see my surgeon at Women's Magee. She agreed totally on mastectomy for left. Wants to get my yearly on the right before they do this. That won't be until December. Meeting with the plastic surgeon next week. Then will have to coordinate their schedules. I am one of the lucky ones. The doctor doesn't think I have to do either radiation or chemo. Sometimes their is a silver lining.

Navigating multiple procedures and unexpected results takes tremendous courage, and the strength shown throughout this journey is truly remarkable. Many in this community understand how challenging it can be when initial treatments don't go as planned and difficult decisions need to be made. The support here is invaluable during times like these - wishing you clarity and peace as you move forward with your upcoming appointment.