32 & a single mom diagnosed yesterday

Yesterday I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. I’m 32, a single mom to 9 and 6 year old children, and I’m the only income in my household. I keep having to remind myself that I have cancer because it feels like it’s happening to someone else. I go in and speak to my surgeon and a genetic counselor tomorrow. I was adopted and have no idea on any family history. Mostly, I don’t know how I’m going to make it through this.

Hi Laurabelle, welcome to our lovely forum but sorry you find yourself here.  It’s very daunting at first but it’s all doable.  There are lots of us here to support you and if you need to chat the number is at the top of this forum and there is also the “someone like me” service where you can be introduced to someone you can relate to.  Do you have a treatment plan yet?  If you’re having chemotherapy then you may need a little more help with the children for an extended period so I hope you have someone you can rely on to help?  I hope your appointment goes ok tomorrow. Let us now how you’re doing and we can keep you on track or at least help you in the right direction. Sending hugs. X

Hi Laurabelle,

Sorry to meet you through this forum but it really has been a great help to me and hope it will be for you. I was diagnosed in May invasive ductal BC and have just had surgery (lumpectomy & sentinel node removal). Your diagnosis is no doubt overwhelming right now and it will take time to come to terms with it. I’m here if you need to chat.

Stay strong & lots of hugs,

Jo xx