My Breast Cancer Journey Begins

Ask the Dr to explain things in laymen terms. Drs love to use acronyms and their own short cut language. My surgeon went through the entire process of cancer with a handheld flip chart that was helpful but there’s a lot more to the surgery than how cancer is found. I had a lumpectomy on March 25th and I’m still in pain from the surgery. A lot of swelling and fluid that isn’t draining properly. Some drs place drains and some don’t. Mine doesn’t use drains, maybe she should have. Lymphoma is a big possibility and you’ll want to talk to your surgeon about how you can prevent it from happening. Make sure your surgeon is really listening to you and not just going through the motions of explaining the surgery. You want a “team” Dr not just a cutter. If you feel your Dr is not listening to you during the consult, they won’t be listening to you after. You want a Dr who sees you as an individual, not just another cancer patient. One big question to ask is your biomarkers or oncotype test. The Dr may not find these are important tests but I would ask to have any and all testing on the tumor itself to be done. Our cancers may be similar but everyone is different. These test help to determine what your score will be for reoccurrence odds.

I totally agree with your comments. Doesn’t matter how many drs you go to until you find one that listens to you

I was diagnosed the same day with the same stats as you and I’m going through those same emotions. I just had second opinion meeting and it was really helpful to do a little after the initial diagnosis after I’d been able to finally retain some of the information. I have a much better understanding of the treatment options after surgery now. Still a complete life altering situation. But I’m trying to take back control.

I have same diagnosis too. Mastectomy on the 19th. I hope your appointment went well.

I have a lumpectomy scheduled for Wednesday but if they see anything on the MRI on Monday we will postpone

I was diagnosed same day with similar characteristics! I had a lumpectomy on 5/22 with sentinel node biopsy. Recovering nicely but anxious about next steps.

Starting this journey can feel overwhelming with all the information and decisions ahead. The numbness and spinning feelings are completely normal responses to such life-changing news, and many in this community have walked similar paths. Having your surgery consultation tomorrow is an important step forward, and remember that this supportive community is here to share experiences and encouragement as you navigate each phase of your treatment journey.