Just been diagnosed with breast cancer after a biopsy. Waiting for a phonecall to discuss the results before an operation. Although not confirmed, I believe it’s Grade 1 if it’s 1cm? My lymph nodes were clear.
Still in a slight state of shock. Trying to get a grip on the various threads but can’t really understand all the jargon that’s being used. No doubt I shall found out at the consultation.
Haven’t seen any posters from my area, but hopefully there might be. Treatment will be at Epping hospital
You need to use the sub-forum ‘Newly diagnosed with breast cancer’. It is part of the ‘Diagnosis’ forum. Hopefully these show up as part of the index on the left hand side when you first enter the forums.
This site has been completely revamped recently and it’s taking a while for people to find their way around and refind old threads, so if you repost there, you may get more responses.
Hi Lulu
Sorry you’ve had to join us on this site - I’m not in your part of the country, unfortunately, but just wanted to reassure you that your post is now visible.
I was diagnosed with invasive BC on 30th Jan and am going in for radical mastectomy (the sort where they remove lymph nodes from under arm as well as boob) this Thursday.
I’ve found this site is really helpful, the people are great at everything from practical stuff (like ‘what does XXX mean?’) to just being there for each other.
Please also call our freephone helpline on 0808 800 6000 which is open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-2pm, here you can speak to one of our team who are either specialist breast care nurses or have had an experience of breast cancer themselves and are here to support you and help you through this difficult time.
Hi Lulu, sorry you are here but welcome on board.Am afraid Im not that near you either,in fact I don’t think I’m that near anyone ! (rural North Wales) Not that it’s made any difference here as we all hold hands across the miles. I got diagnosed 29th Jan,all I know is its a grade2 and am going in for a lumpectomy and sentinal node biopsy two weeks today,can’t wait now,just want to get on with it,the waiting is the worst ! I find being on here a great help re info and support too as we are all going through the same thing in various degrees. Feel free to chat anytime.
Big hugs.
Many thanks for all the comments. I haven’t been able to tell all of my family yet due to their own health issues but once I’ve had the operation I will. It’s a hell of a lot easier to write down my feelings rather than talk them through at the moment.
I’m expecting to have the operation quite soon but I do have a personal health insurance. They haven’t been particularly helpful or sympathetic on the phone, but as the NHS seems to be very quick I’m wondering if I will make use of it anyway. The biggest complication with the private insurance is that I have a letter from the consultant doing the biopsy stating that I mentioned it to my doctor 18 months ago. What is not added, is that the doctor didn’t feel it necessary to refer me on for screening. I’m expecting the insurers to say they won’t cover me as I’ve only been with them for just over a year.
Anyone had experience of this? I’m hoping that the NHS care will be good enough for me anyway, but it does peeve me at the moment!
i was diagnosed july 2007. i started with my gp and was referred for a mamogram and then an appointment for the results. Things got a bit complicated because we were due to be going on holiday in a week and i had seen something on my notes that i couldnt quite take in and didnt have the balls to ask at the time!! the words LARGE MALIGNANT i walked out of there in a daze. My sister pushed for me to go and have a private biopsy to get the results before we went away. I did this and paid the consultation fee and biopsy, the results were back within a few hours and it was definatley cancer. My private consultant told me not to throw anymore money at this and to go back to the nhs as they would give me the same care there… and he was right, i had excellent help and all my treatment was scheduled. Whatever is right for you, if you can get it private then do so if not dont worry the nhs are just as good. take care and good luck xx
I’m sure you’re right sarmicmar, the NHS seemed to have been quick so far. The Breast Screening Clinic are actually sending out a new letter with my comments ommitted, so if I decide to pursue the private option I shouldn’t be given the run around.
Consultant tomorrow to discuss operation. I’ve been rushed off my feet with work which has helped keep me pretty calm overall. Well…part from the odd hissy fit at home, lol!
Hi Lulu
Just to wish you all the best.
I noticed that your treatment is at Epping hospital, I live about 7 stops down the Central line from there. My surgery, a mastectomy was done at at Whipps Cross Hospital Dec07 then rads at Barts.
Keep in touch and let us know how it goes.
M x
hi lulu. i too have just been diagnosed & i live in hoddesdon. i am currently visiting a breast clinic also at an epping hospital! i agree everything is so confusing & although everyone tells you there is support out there it seems extremely difficult to find. i am hopefully starting chemo next week i have 2 invasive cancers in the left breast & am feeling really scared but positive. would be great to speak to someone locally. please keep in touch. sharon x
Sharon, going for my pre admission at Epping on Tuesday. I’ll keep a look out for you on the board. It is nervewracking and it’s so nice to speak to others in the same position that know exactly where I’m coming from.