Hi - I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma after a recall mammogram in late November . The tumour is 11mm , ER positive, HEP2 Negative , grade2 and no sign of anything in my lymph nodes but they won’t know for sure until after surgery .I had a second biopsy a couple of weeks ago to check another small area which came back clear but now I need another biopsy booked for the 8th January because they don’t think they biopsied the right area. I met the surgeon just before Christmas who said this is an early cancer and curative, a lumpectomy and radiotherapy , hopefully no need for chemo but that would be decided after surgery which will not be until February . I am so struggling with the wait , I feel like the cancer is rampaging through my body during this wait. That if it’s not in my lymph nodes now then it will be by the time I have surgery……The surgeon said that if I felt all of this was overwhelming then I could have a mastectomy but it would not be what he would advise . I am googling how quick a cancer grows , not helpful for my mental health
I think I felt like this when I was going through my pre op investigations. I calculated my tumour had taken 6 months to grow (as had a previous normal mammogram) and that the delay of 2 months meant it was a third bigger.
My surgeon told me it doesn’t work like that and now I’ve had my lumpectomy I’ve learnt the value of the pre op investigations. It’s an incredibly precise surgery, balancing the need to get clear margins against the cosmetic results.
I’m glad I waited and didn’t jump to mastectomy.
My lumpectomy isn’t pretty but it’s better for me psychologically I think.
Hang in there and get the best deal for you xx
Hello llanwinno123
Thank you for your message.
It sounds like you are having a difficult time and feeling overwhelmed waiting for further biopsies to be done. I wonder if it might be easier to call us and talk this through. We often find we can help people more by speaking to them on the phone. If so call us on 0808 800 6000.
You mention you have been googling. Sometimes this can feed your anxiety, so you have to consider if this is helpful for you at the moment.
Waiting for further investigations and biopsies can be difficult and this is often a very stressful time. Many women find this the most difficult part. Waiting for surgery is always difficult so it may be worth having a chat with your breast care nurse to let her know about your worries and how you are feeling.
People go through a whole range of emotions when diagnosed with cancer so it’s understandable that you are feeling overwhelmed. People cope with fear and anxiety in different ways and the way you feel may change as time goes on.
Cancer usually grows over a long time and it’s important to get all the information about your cancer to offer you the best treatment.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
As I said earlier do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen to your concerns, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Grete
Breast Care Nurse
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