Just diagnosed and scared

I was just diagnosed on Thursday after needle biopsy the week before. All I was told at this point is DCIS grade 2. They are doing more tests to find out the other information. Was feeling hopeful, but my primary care doctor said that grade doesn’t matter it’s about the stage and that sent me into a tailspin. I have an MRI scheduled for Wednesday and consult the following Monday. The waiting is horrific. It seems like things should move faster. The worry/anxiety is overwhelming. Any advice on how to make it through? Or anything else I should be doing at this point? 

Was so glad to find this site. 

Thank you.

If it’s truly just DCIS then it’s stage O breast cancer. That’s not invasive. Doesn’t mean it doesn’t need to come out but IDC is when you get to stage I and over.

Hi Lucy

I’m sorry you’ve found yourself in this situation but we’ve all been there and understand what you’re going through.

The problem with breast cancer is that each diagnosis is unique. Biopsy samples will be tested for type, grade, stage, proteins, hormones, genes, mutations… They have to have all the data so they can provide you with the most effective treatment. Whatever it is, it’s all manageable,

It does mean there is a LOT of waiting and, cruel though it feels, that is necessary. You can’t just be put on, say, hormone therapy, only to find out later that it’s suppressing the wrong hormone. You don’t want to have a full mastectomy if a small lumpectomy will do the job.

Initially, it feels like our world has turned upside down. We only know scary stuff about breast cancer and so we are scared. What you need to do now is be practical. Whatever lies ahead will need some degree of resilience so focus on building it up.  Stay off Google (we all say that for good reason - little good comes of it and a lot of harm is done). Try not to catastrophise. Build up your emotional resilience through mindfulness, yoga, meditation, running…whatever helps you feel stabilised. I still use YouTube videos by Progressive Hypnosis - just plug in the headphones and I’m away with the fairies. There are NHS-endorsed apps you can use like Calm and Headspace.

The best thing you can so right now is be calm. You’re probably yelling at the computer, reading that. But is IS possible to establish a calmer attitude so nothing feels ‘horrific’. Good luck with the MRI (standard practice, more data). Just be aware that, unless you are a private patient, it’s possible the consultant won’t have the results as quickly as you’d like. Two weeks is generally considered good.

All the best

Jan x

If your head is spinning still, the nurses on the helpline above are excellent listeners and soothers.

Hi @Lucy43

I am sorry to hear you are feeling this way while waiting. If you want to talk things through, we’re here to support you. You can call our Breast Care Nurses on our free Helpline - 0808 800 6000. 

Best wishes x