Just diagnosed - feels surreal

Hi 

My name is Mel and I’m 45. On Wednesday I was diagnosed with low grade IDC. My team are telling me they are looking at curative treatment. Plan for lumpectomy and radiotherapy followed by tamoxifen. I am waiting to see if it is HER 2 positive. 

I feel like my world has imploded. I know I need to be positive but I’m really struggling right now.  Never thought I’d be in this position. Any tips on coping strategies would be gratefully received.

thanks in advance 

Mel x

Hi Mel,

First of all welcome & we’ve all been there, it is such a shock getting diagnosed, but we do get our head around it. 

There‘s every reason to be positive, like you, my treatment plan was the same as proposed to you & all’s fine 3 years down the road, as it is for the vast majority of us. 

I found it helpful to take it a stage & an appointment at a time & tried to avoid getting into the ‘what ifs’ as it’s not helpful. Just go with what the team are telling you & what you know now. 

It does all settle down when the treatment plan is confirmed & you know where you’re going with all. 

It will be ok

ann x

Hi Mel 

welcome to the forum where I have found so much comfort and support. I am similar story to you, 46 yrs old , localised tumor . I have had my lumpectomy at the end of feb and was up and about the next day albeit a little tender. I’ve had a bit of a delay as my tumour was sent for an oncotype test as I was er+ her2 negative with no lymph nodes infected. Waited 2 weeks for the results and now just waiting on starting radiotherapy very soon along with tamoxifen. Once your treatment plan is sorted I found it got easier and less stressful. I’ve tried to keep my normal routine as I have 2 kids aged 7 and  14 . 

Keep positive and even if you have a wobble you will pick yourself up . We are all here for each other. Big hugs nicky xx