I had a biopsy just over a week ago and I had lots of cysts and a suspicious looking lump.
i today got the news that I have grade 2 invasive BC which is Her negative and Estrogen positive which I am told is good.
i have been told I don’t need chemo and a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy and 4 weeks of Rads will suffice.
I feel pretty ok with the diagnosis or maybe it hasn’t hit yet. It doesn’t feel like a big thing as I dint need chemo. Maybe I am being naive but what should I expect ?
I have to say I admire your attitude. I only achieved that by switching off and thinking ‘just get on with it.’ In answer to your question, I can tell you what to expect in theory but we all react differently. Personally I found radiotherapy a doddle but I’d been flattened by chemo so I was due some luck. I got my side effects about 4 weeks later and, 4 months later, they’re easing off. But I know of others who barely noticed it and others who find radiotherapy hard from the start. It really is a case of wait and be optimistic.
In terms of what happens, assuming your biopsy doesn’t change the treatment plan, you’ll have a ‘long’ session where the radiographers will get you lined up, using the data from the surgeon, and give you tiny tatts which will be their guides. After that, it’s just lie back, assume the position, sing to yourself and let it happen. You don’t feel a thing and it takes maybe 3 minutes. Make sure you’ve kept up your breast exercises and have flexibility in your shoulder because you need to hold still for those few minutes. The slightest movement and they have to get their high-tech equipment back out (a plastic ruler) and measure your position again. Probably the hardest thing for most people is having to go every bloody day! That, and machines breaking down. You can get a good leaflet free of charge from here but the hospital will keep you informed.
There is absolutely no reason why your outlook should change. ‘It could be worse’ is a great attitude to have and will help you get through positively. Good luck,
Hi gingerjo, loving the positivity I really feel it helps . I had same treatment you are expecting. Surgery was a doddle for me, I only had 1 lymph node taken so under arm was ok, some ladies find this the most painful , I was up and about the day after surgery all be a little tender for around a week . Radiotherapy didn’t effect me at the time but about a week after finishing I got the burning of skin just on my nipple which is inverted due to surgery , then it got infected but other than that I have found it all bearable. I have remained as positive as I can but did have some meltdowns , but gave myself a stern talking to and pulled up my big girl pants and carried on. Happy to answer any questions if I can help, you’ve got this xxx nicky xxx