I am new to this forum, my mum has been diagnosed with invasive ductal BC about a month ago now and had a lumpectomy+ sentinel node removed 2 weeks ago.
We went for her surgery results yesterday and it wasn’t what we expected. Although her Lymph node was clear, they found 3 lumps in the wide excision (scans and diagnosis had revealed only one lump of approx. 15mm), and unfortunately her margins weren’t clear as they found some pre-cancerous tissue all around
.
The surgeon explained she will need a second surgery, she wasn’t very clear if this time my mum will need a mastectomy which my mum is really not keen on. However, this will all be done after a course of Chemotherapy and Herceptin as her cancer is HER 2 +ve.
I am not sure why the chemo is done before the second surgery or is this normal procedure? I just want to know if anyone has gone or is going through a similar situation and if the second surgery was recommended before or after chemo?
My mum is really down and was very scared about chemo treatment; we were initially hoping she will only get radiotherapy as her cancer is stage 1.
Thanks for your help and good luck to everyone going through BC.
Welcome to the forums. I’m sorry to hear of your mums diagnosis, this must be a very difficult time for both of you.
As well as the support you and your mum will receive on the forums you might find it helpful to order the BCC resources pack. It has been specifically designed for those newly diagnosed and contains information to help you understand the diagnosis, test results and the various treatments available. If you would like to order a copy just follow the link bellow:-
You and your mum may also like to talk things through with one of the helpline staff, they are there to offer emotional support as well as provide information. The free phone number is 0808 800 6000 and lines are open 9-5 Monday to Friday and 10-2 Saturday.
Hi espoir, I am in a similar situation. I had wle with reconstruction on 14th Feb. and my margins weren’t clear, so I have to have surgery a month after chemo stops. I think it will be in August. I was very down about it as the week before I had been told no further surgery was needed. I feel quite well at the moment and am worried I will be run down after chemo. I have decided to concentrate on getting through the chemo and not dwell on the surgery. One thing at a time as I am a bit of a worrier. I think the reason for the chemo first is to make sure there is not too much of a delay in treating any cells left behind. Tell your Mum I am thinking of her and know how she feels. My chemo starts on the 25th, it was due to start today but I have a heavy cold. Has your Mum started yet? Pansy 50