My Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Seeking Support and Experiences

Hi Necca, I’m new too diagnosed 6 months ago, my anxiety is still up there. Couple of tips I can share: Read/ study as much as you can about you particular breast cancer and remember everyone is different. Have you had genetic testing done? Find out if you are carrying one or both BRCA genes, that should help guide your decision about mastectomy vs lumpectomy. Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion for your surgeon, oncologist, and Radiation Oncologist. Lastly, maybe look into some holistic treatments too, I’m looking into that now. Just remember treatment today is not what it used to be, constantly changing.

Hi Gwen. Thank you so much for your input. I will definitely request a genetic test to be done by my primary doctor next week. I’ve been reading up on my diagnosis invasive lobular cancer and have had a partial lumpectomy after my biopsy. I wasn’t sure if I needed a second opinion due to my surgery is scheduled for November 17. Again thank you.

Hi Necca, It's very natural to be nervous and full of anxiety once receiving this type of news. I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in the right breast in November of 2021. My surgeon gave me several option I could have chosen but I had a bilateral mastectomy because of my family genetic history & the cancer was removed from my breast but I now have to live with Stage IV METASTATIC BREAST CANCER for the rest of my life since theres no cure only treatment. because some cancerous cells hid out during surgery and now i have a cancerous tumor in my lungs. So see everyone's background and family history aren't the same. Unfortunately my mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer when she was 70 & went in remission and when she turned 81 the Cancer came back in her ovaries and I lost my mom 3 years ago to Ovarian Cancer...not to mention her younger sister is a 2 time breast cancer survivor and 2 of my mom's nieces have also had breast cancer as well. We all tested positive and carry the BRCA2 GENE. So it's very important to ask question and know as much about your family history. I am now preparing to undergo a full hysterectomy in a few weeks to prevent any surprises in the future as like what happen to my mother (RIH). So do what is best for you & I wish you all the best💗

Hi Joyce. Thanks for reaching out and sharing your experience. It has been a very challenging process for me when I have to put my foot down and demand answers to my questions from both the oncologist and plastic surgeon due to they were talking fast and over my head but I did get my answers that I was looking for. Yes, my family both sides have a history of cancer so the genetic test was not needed. You see, they had already schedule my surgery before I even knew what type of cancer I have, what stage or even given any other options without I could decide from. Yes, I canceled that particular surgery date. Now I have a new date set since all of my questions were answered. I’m sorry if my I’m all over the place but the anxiety has gotten worse since my surgery date is getting close. Surgery was scheduled for Nov 17 but they just called and moved it up to this Friday. Thank you for much for sharing your experience with me. R.I.P. to your mom.

It happened to me too. When they schedule d surgery in hurry I have thought they knew something about how invasive was my cancer even though they said it was stage 9 in situ. Now I am confused. I had a mastectomy if only left Brest . Is it going to be ok?

Stage 0 Sorry

Hi Necca... I was diagnosed with Stage llb nonaggressive bilateral breast cancer in April- I had chemo, bilateral mastectomies and 30 radiation treatments... I am told I am cured- phenomenal treatment team - but questioning what long term management I need- no family history, BRCA negative- healthy ( first medical problem) 78 year old- I saw this as a "situation" I needed to handle which I did and that is now behind me- trusting your doctors is most important as you navigate your treatment and ALWAYS ask questions until you feel confident with the answers- if they don't want to answer them, move on to another doctor...here's to your good health

Welcome to this supportive community where many members have walked similar paths and understand the overwhelming feelings that come with a new cancer diagnosis. The anxiety and confusion after receiving this news is completely normal, and connecting with others who have faced similar decisions about treatment options can provide valuable perspective and comfort. This community is filled with caring people who are eager to share their experiences and offer support during this challenging time.