So I found a lump. well a few lumps and went to the doctors. I explained how my mum and nan both Battled breast cancer and I found a large lump in my left breast and 3 small ones in my right breast. The examined me and have referred me to the breast clinic. They explained how most tumours are benign but with my family history must get checked. I’m scared what happens? If I don’t have and cancerous tumours could I be considered for a double mesectomy and reconstructive surgery on the NHS? Sorry for the long post I have only told my boyfriend and best friend. I don’t want to tell my mum till I know for sure , should I tell her? I don’t want to scare her and worry her as she’s only just beat cancer herself. Any help and info would be brill ladies. Many thanks xxxx alice Ellen xxx
Hi AliceEllen
Welcome to the BCC forums, in addition to the support you will find here our helpliners are on hand with practical and emotional support so please feel to call to talk your concerns over on 0808 800 6000, weekdays 9-5 and Saturday 10-2
The following link will take you to the BCC ‘Worried about breast cancer’ section where you will find information about breast cancer in families and a publication about what you can expect to happen at your appointment at the breast clinic:
breastcancercare.org.uk/worried?utm_source=Homepage&%3Butm_medium=promo&%3Butm_campaign=worried
Take care
Lucy BCC
Hi AliceEllen,
I’m so sorry you’ve found yourself in this position, especially at such a tender age. It’s hard enough when you’re older, but you have done the right thing by going to the doctor. And they have done the best thing by referring you.
I’m not sure from your post whether you’re asking for information about what’s likely to happen at your appointment? If so, let me know and I’ll give you a brief overview.
As for whether you’d be able to have a double mastectomy if there was no cancer, this is something you would need to discuss with your breast surgeon.
With regards to whether you should tell your mum, I think it has to be your call. All I can say is, as a mother who is recovering myself, I would want to know. I have three kids, including a 22-year-old daughter. If it was her in your position, I would want to be able to support her, just as she has supported me.
Another thing I will say is that my daughter has two fairly large breast lumps. She has had them for a while now, but she got each of them checked as soon as she found them, just as you are doing. They are both fibroadenomas, so she has decided to leave them alone.
Because you are so young, the likelihood of breast cancer is minimal, so try not to worry too much until you see the specialists and know what you’re dealing with.
Take care, and if you need anymore info, just ask. Best wishes, Mel. xxx