November found a lump, doctor said that as it hurt it wouldn’t be cancer. Had lumpectomy and 2nd excision when surgeon said he didn’t erxpect to see me again. Believed him so was completely gobsmacked when told I needed mastectomy. First reaction was- I can’t go into hospital because of hubby - he was diagnosed with early onset alzheimers at 63 last year. Also seemed OTT for a non invasive cancer. Anyway I@m struggling with the choices. Opped initially for immediate reconstruction as this would only need one op but now am dithering. Am due to see surgeon on Friday and am getting cold feet - HELP!! I would love to have some opinions from those of you out there who have been through all this and therefore know what they areb talking about! This is my first ever posting on a website so sorry if it’s rubbish but am feeling a bit desperate now, thanks for reading me
Hi there,
Its such a tough call when we are faced with such huge decisions. Especially when we dont often have the time to consider the options and take it all in.
I was kinda similar, in that I was first told Id need a lumpectomy as there was one lump found. But after various tests, it was found there were several and a mastectomy was strongly advised.
I didnt really feel there was much to choose between.There are so many variables in each case, I wouldnt want to suggest any one route over another.
I had a mastectomy in Oct 09 and luckily was Er positive-no lymph involvement and just had tamoxifen after surgery-no chemo/rads. I too was told initially I could have immediate recon, but if rads needed, it could affect the healing.
Im afraid this is a bit of a ramble, but in essence, take the professional advice from the team at your hospital and speak to the helpline here- they are excellent for putting things into perspective and suggesting things to discuss.
And your posting isnt rubbish-this is a whole new world for you and we are all here for you whatever your decision.
And dont worry about hubby too much-there are support services out there for you both.
Best Wishes
Cathie xx
Hi Granddot,
You are not rambling at all.
I can only echo what Everton Babe has said, speak to the professionals - surgeons and breast cancer care helpline… often we just need to say all the options out loud and talk through them.
Sending you lots of warm wishes
Marguerite
PS. I also believed that if a lump was painful it wasn’t cancer - a myth, it does!
Hi Granddot,
Here’s the phone number for the BCC helpline 0808 800 6000, calls are free, lines open Monday to Friday 9-5 and Saturday 9-2, the staff are here to support you so please do give them a call.
Take care,
Jo, Facilitator