Hi, Folks! I just joined the forum because I could really use some people to talk to.
I just had my very first mammogram last month, a week after my 41st birthday, and there were a few areas of concern, so they ordered an ultrasound. At that point, I wasn’t really worried. I know it’s not uncommon, and I was glad they were being proactive and taking a closer look.
Then the ultrasound results came in. A spiculated mass and an abnormal lymph node. BI-RADS 5. Highly suggestive of malignancy.
So in a few days I’m going in for a core needle biopsy of the mass and a fine needle aspiration of the lymph node. The procedure itself doesn’t scare me, but I’m so worried about what the results are going to be.
I’m trying to hold out hope that it will turn out to be benign, but it sounds like that’s unlikely. I haven’t mentioned that part to anyone yet. My partner is worried enough already. And that’s really the part that bothers me most. Whatever happens, I can get through this. I’m ready to fight with everything I’ve got. But I hate the thought of putting anyone else through this.
If anyone has any advice or words of encouragement, I’ll gladly take them. Should I be more hopeful? Are my chances better than I think? I know there’s no way to know for certain until after the biopsy. I’m just trying to be as prepared as possible for whatever the news may be.
Thanks for taking the time to read this. I hope you’re all having a lovely day. 
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I don’t know as there’s anyway to prepare for a cancer diagnosis. I guess you could have an idea on what hospital you want to go to and if you have a choice, what surgeon and oncologist you want. That’s about it. Other than that there’s nothing really to do but wait for the results and try your best to distract yourself so that it’s not mentally overwhelming. But - and this is a huge thing - breast cancer is so common that there are a multitude of fantastic treatments that can knock almost each and every diagnosis out. Some of these treatments are harder than others but they’re great equalizers and the vast majority of people end up fine afterwards. Some of us even come out stronger and better. So know that no matter what, you and your doctors have this. It is going to be okay. I hope though that it’s nothing, But if it’s not, we’re here to offer support and camaraderie if you need it 
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Hi, welcome to the forum. I am sorry to hear what you are going through. I don’t really know what the likelihood is that it’s cancer or benign but just my experience as someone a few weeks further along the journey.
I got my biopsy done at the ultrasound and was told on the day it was likely to be a cancer but had to wait for the results to find out for sure. I agree that the not knowing is hard as you can’t start to process things until you know for sure what you’re dealing with. Finding out for sure gave me a sense of calm, and having a whole team of people whose job it is to treat you felt very reassuring.
My experience is that it’s impossible to judge how others will react to a cancer diagnosis, if that’s what you receive. I was worried about my children (teen and tween) and my dad but they’ve taken it in their stride. People seem to want to help, and it has come from some unexpected people too!
Sorry if that’s not helpful but I just wanted to say that no matter the outcome I am sure you’ll deal with it. You sound really positive and strong
xx
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@Kay0987 @greenqueen
Thank you both so much for your kind words. I feel better just having gotten this off my chest. It’s so helpful to hear from people who have been in my shoes. I really appreciate you taking the time to reply.
Right now, I’m just ready to hurry up and get this biopsy done and find out what I’m dealing with!
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